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Chicago-Owned Casino at Center of Gambling Expansion Debate

31 May 2004

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – As reported by the Chicago Daily Herald: "Nearly $2 billion in new gambling dollars are on the table in Illinois, and powerful politicians are fighting over who would be allowed to rake them in.

"The most controversial portion of a sweeping gambling expansion package being debated in Springfield is the idea of allowing Chicago to own its own gambling license. While proponents tout it as economic development, opponents question whether city ownership is in the best interest of its residents.

"Gambling proponents point to one driving force behind the proposals: money. Sponsors of the gambling package place the potential state revenue from the expansion at about $1.8 billion. Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley says in addition to that, a city-owned casino would bring Chicago hundreds of millions of dollars.

"…Supporters of a city-owned casino say that is the money they want

"…Gambling opponents say it would be a conflict of interest for a city to watch out for its citizens and try to take money from them at the same time…"

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