Gaming News

Scioto Downs May Join Cincinnati Casino Effort

OHIO – As reported by the Cincinnati Business Courier: "A Columbus racetrack might throw in its lot with Cincinnati backers of an effort to get a casino downtown.

"Gerald Austin, a spokesman for Queen City Gaming Entertainment, said Scioto Downs 'is considering our proposal and may be going in with us.'

"Several groups are trying to get issues on the November ballot to bring slot machine gambling to Ohio.

"…A downtown Cincinnati casino was dropped from Learn and Earn's proposal, and its local backers, angry at the rejection, are pursuing a ballot effort of their own. Queen City Gaming, formed by mortgage banker Louis Beck, has an option to buy Broadway Commons, once under consideration for a Cincinnati Reds ballpark, and build a casino there.

…According to Austin, Scioto Downs officials were hoping for gaming tables at their track, as well as slot machines, but that's not part of the Learn and Earn proposal. A Cincinnati-proposed amendment could include that.

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