Ottawa's gambling expansion plan hits opposition wall
Ottawa City Council was invited to reaffirm the decision that hard rock casino Ottawa would be in charge of the Lido Carlton Raceway gambling operation, formerly owned by Ontario Lottery and Game Company (OLG). As this is the first debate on the issue, some Members have not missed the opportunity to express their concerns about the social harm and disease that gambling can cause.
Gambling Expansion Find Already Enemies
As part of state regulations, public consultations and congressional votes are required before the acquisition agreement can be finalized. That is why Congress must re-approve the decision that had been taken over by Hard Rock Casino Ottawa to take control of the Lido Caleton Raceway gambling operation. This was a good opportunity for some Members to object to the expansion of the gambling sector and to firmly refute the possible gambling evils. Reps. Jeff Raffer, Catherine McKenney, Toby Nussbaum and Diane Dins described it as a mistake to allow gambling expansion without accurate information and work plans to prevent the addiction of gambling.
Although their attempt to discuss the issue fell through, four opposition lawmakers argued Ottawa's public health should provide detailed information on the issue after Mayor Jim Watson explained that healthcare was the government's responsibility, resulting in opposition to further expansion of the gambling industry. They explained that now is the right time to discuss the issue before it is too late, and more people are expected to share their opposition, bearing in mind that this was the first vote on the issue of gambling expansion.
A Brief Review of OLG's Privatization
OLG's privatization of gambling houses has been triggered by the significant decline the company has faced in recent years, with its outdated gambling machines and gambling facilities no longer able to compete in growing online gambling and fancy Las-Vegas-style casinos. Accordingly, OLG has decided to transfer gambling activities under the trust of foreign operators expecting the modernization of the stagnant gambling market. 온라인카지노사이트
Many operators participated in the takeover bid, and Hard Rock Casino was one of the winners to take part of the pie. Before signing the acquisition deal, it was announced that Hard Rock Casino was considering a major expansion that would cost the company about $33 million. First of all, the company plans to add 21 table games, including roulette, blackjack, and baccarat, as well as a number of new slot games.