According to a report, Ohio Governor John Kasich has mixed feelings about gaming, but he is expected to hire a consultant in the coming days to analyze expanded gaming

in the state. One of his first orders of business could be to investigate the racino option, and that is sweet music to the ears of local racing executives.

An article by The Plain Dealer has cited Kasick spokesman Rob Nichols as saying that the racino option could be on the forefront of things to look at.

"He (Kasich) wants to consult with someone who has expertise," Nichols was quoted as saying. "You only get one chance to do this. You have to do it right. So that's sort of the guiding principle here."

In reference to the possibility of being able to compete with racinos in neighboring states, Lebanon Raceway operator Lou Carlo said the addition of expanded gaming at Ohio tracks would "help big time."

Former Ohio Racing Commission Executive Director Tom Fries, Jr. was quoted as saying "To put it in plain English, we would love to be on a level playing field with the surrounding states."

(With files from The Plain Dealer)

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