Over the past few months, there has been much discussion on the topic of a potential casino complex in Vaughan. Many of you voiced your opinion via e-mail, telephone, petitions and an online survey. I listened, did research and made my position against a casino clear to my community and my colleagues.

On May 28, 2013, the City of Vaughan met to discuss and make a decision on the matter. After a gruelling eight-hour debate, council voted to declare its interest to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) to host an integrated entertainment and casino complex in Vaughan. I was very disappointed, but I do want to thank all of you who participated in the ongoing dialogue on the issue.

As your local councillor, my job is to provide you with necessary services while keeping taxes down; however, I also believe that my obligation is to keep the community safe. Unfortunately, I feel some of my colleagues paid more attention to a casino’s projected short-term financial benefits than its negative impact on the community.

Please know that confirming the city’s interest to the OLG is only the preliminary first step in the process. I will continue to look at ways to prevent this decision from moving further forward. I believe we can bring more substantial world-class attractions to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, such as a performing arts campus or a convention centre.

For more information on this or other topics or to subscribe to my e-newsletter, please feel free to contact my office at 905-832-8585, ext. 8342, or via e-mail at Sandra.Racco@vaughan.ca.