So you’ve just heard the news. They’re debating putting a casino into your local town. Your first knee-jerk reaction may be to rally against the cesspool of debauchery and sin that’s coming to your town. Your other reaction may be to cheer that the casino will bring in jobs and revenue. You may be sitting firmly on the fence on this one. Here are some pros and cons of having a casino as your neighbor.
The Pros: Money Talks
Money, money, money. That’s the main reason to be glad about a casino moving in. Casinos are taxed, so a casino means more revenue for your government and less tax dollars owed at tax season. State officials may be pushing for the casinos even if their constituents are against it because casinos bring in a lot of money for the state, money that can be put to use building schools, fixing bridges, and constructing roads. That money can also go to local homeless shelters or for community events. Casinos also bring in a lot of jobs, which is always nice for a community– especially in a recession. Casinos also have the benefit of offering both entry-level jobs and more experienced jobs. With casinos come tourists, which means a big boost for the tourism industry in your area. Small businesses may have an easier time staying in business. Hotels and restaurants could open up or receive a boost in sales.
The Cons: What is the Money Saying?
Some people feel that the money a casino can provide is “dirty money.” It’s no secret that gambling sometimes becomes an addiction, not a fun pleasure activity. Gambling can send citizens into severe debt if they don’t know when to stop. Worse, casinos get their money by other people losing money, so they certainly take no precautions in preventing a huge loss. Gambling addiction therapy programs may become necessary.