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Florida Voters Want Pari-mutuel Betting

FLORIDA – As reported by the Gainesvilles Sun: "Hamilton County voters said yes to pari-mutuel betting during a binding referendum Tuesday.

"Residents cast 1,989 yes votes and 1,126 no votes when asked if a pari-mutuel wagering permit should be issued to Richmond Entertainment.

"Minutes after the final vote totals were announced Tuesday night, company founder Glenn Richards said he is planning to break ground Jan. 30 on 220 acres near U.S. 129 and Interstate 75 for a jai-alai fronton and racetrack.

"…For the next 2 1/2 years, the jobs will be in construction. Richards said he intends to open the 600-seat fronton within about 18 months and open the horse track in January 2006.

"…Opposition to the wagering permit was led by the Rev. Jerry Thomason, pastor of the nondenominational Harvest Fellowship Church and president of the Hamilton County Ministerial Alliance. Thomason was among church leaders who urged voters to turn down the permit because of the potential for families to be fractured and lives ruined by gambling addictions…"

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