Toronto City Council has voted in favour of a casino gaming expansion at Woodbine Racetrack, according to reports.
The Toronto Star has reported that City Council approved the casino expansion in a vote of 25-19 following Wednesday's debate.
With slots and wagering on horse racing already on site and the potential for job opportunities, Mayor John Tory expressed his support for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp.'s plan to nearly double slot machines and add table games.
"My support for taking this proposition to the next stage does, however, arise out of a profound determination that I have to see more jobs become available in the northwest corner of the city, an area that has been starved for jobs and opportunity for a long, long time,” Tory was quoted as saying.
A statement from Woodbine Entertainment Group issued Wednesday states, "We want to thank Toronto City Council for their support in trusting Woodbine Entertainment Group to make the best use of the Woodbine racing site. It is a great day for the Ontario horse racing and breeding industry. Today’s vote to support expanded gaming and table games at Woodbine means there is a catalyst for future development on the site. It ensures a secure and sustainable revenue source for the horse racing and breeding industry in Ontario and protects the 7,500 existing jobs in Toronto. It has also opened the door to a significant number of good and new jobs in Rexdale that will be created through the development of new Woodbine amenities like concert and entertainment venues, food and beverage facilities, and so much more."
To watch a CTV Toronto News report on the City Council vote, click here.