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Gambling Complex Developer Encouraged by Vote

Developer Dan O'Leary released a statement after the casino gambling question on the GOP ballot unexpectedly received a slight majority favorable vote.

 

 

Much to everyone's surprise, Gwinnett County Republicans voted a slight majority in favor of the casino gambling question on the July 31 GOP Primary ballot.

The question: "Should Georgia have casino gambling with funds going to education?" received a 50.2 percent yes vote, while 49.7 percent said no.

How did you vote on the question in Tuesday's election? Tell us in the comments.

While the question is non-binding and were merely advisory, it could impact a proposed $1-billion gambling facility in Gwinnett County, particularly unincorporated Norcross. Developer Dan O'Leary believed the question is flawed, especially when compared to the question on the Democratic ballot: "Would you support casino gambling in Gwinnett County?"

Now that the votes were more in favor than expected, O'Leary sent out a hopeful statement.

"The people have spoken," he said in a press release. "They reject government solutions that simply raise taxes to fund their operations. It’s time to think creatively about solutions."

O'Leary's proposed destination gaming facility would have video lottery terminals in an almost resort-like complex, which would include a hotel, restaurants, retail and more. In order for O'Leary to move forward with construction, he needs the approval to operate the video lottery terminals at the facility.

His proposal was essentially shot down at the Georgia Lottery Board meeting in April where he presented his plan. Now that the voters have shown a slight majority in favor, things are looking up for O'Leary's plan.

"I trust this strong support by the people of Georgia will encourage the Lottery Board to move forward now with its mission of maximizing revenue for the HOPE scholarship," O'Leary said.

Related Topics: gambling in gwinnett

Cynthia Wicker

8:46 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

The vote was NOT in favor of having casinos in Gwinnett, but only if there were for a portion to go to education!!!

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Mark Wallace

9:19 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

Come on. Bring in the Casinos. Stop thinking like bible beaters. This has nothing to do with religion. People should have the right to spend their money any way they see fit. It will bring jobs, entertainment and money for education. USA!!!

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Ray

11:45 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

Yes! Bring it on!
This complex is the shot in the arm that the area needs … construction, jobs, (and excitement eventually)

It needs to be more than just video lottery as well … it needs to be a fully functioning casino the likes of Biloxi and Atlantic City … is 'video lottery' going to be a draw?

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Alex H

4:59 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012

I've always been a fan of the concept of turning Underground Atlanta over to someone like Harrah's or Trump. It would help transform that area by providing a real draw, as well as increasing foot traffic and security.

Reply

Jan Kennedy

1:11 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

None of you mentioned the crime, including prostitution and drug dealing that a casino complex would bring. Is that "educational" for our children?

Reply

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