SEARCH NEWS:

 

Hamilton, Ohio Casino Idea Gains Fans, Critics

"City Councilman Richard Holzberger hit a nerve when he recently proposed exploring the legality of attracting a riverboat casino to the Great Miami River in the city's slumping downtown.

"…No one knows the odds against the riverboat casino. At Holzberger's request, City Council last week directed Law Director Hillary Miller to find out whether there's a loophole in state law that would make Hamilton exempt from the riverboat gambling ban.

"…Holzberger's proposal has also produced reaction among Hamilton's neighbors.

"`You've got to give him a pat on the back for thinking outside the box,' Fairfield City Councilwoman Jill Kinder said.

"…Some Hamilton business leaders think the idea is worth investigating.

"`I'd be interested in listening to the pros and cons,' said George Schmidt, president of an organization of downtown property and business owners called the Special Improvement District. `Let's see if gambling would enhance our community or not. Let's get all the facts and then make a decision.'

"…Tom Nye, former Hamilton mayor, said the potential financial bonanza might outweigh the possible negatives.

"…Patricia Schmitz, 61, of Hamilton, agrees, saying the extra revenue would enable Hamilton to provide badly needed services, such as public transportation…"

< Gaming News