8 New Casinos? Vote Could Come In November
LANSING (WWJ) - Michiganders may soon have an opportunity to vote on whether they'd like eight more casinos to be built throughout the state.
The Committee For More Michigan Jobs wants casinos at a variety of sites -- including the Pontiac Silverdome, in Clinton Township near M-59 and Gratiot, and another in Detroit.
While opponents say the state has enough casinos, the committee's spokesperson Emily Palsrok said these establishments would help boost the local economy.
"We're estimating that this is going to create 16,000 jobs statewide, and I think that's a conservative number -- both in the construction of the casinos and the jobs at the facilities, and even new jobs in surrounding areas of what the casinos will bring to the communities, " Palsrok said.
The Michigan Board of Canvassers will decide on Tuesday whether the group's language passes muster. If approved, the measure will be placed on the November ballot.
Locally, at Motor City Casino, CEO Greg Solomon, responding to the potential of the new competition, said he's not concerned but he is paying attention.
As part of a new program, Motor City Casino guests will now be able to redeem rewards towards the lease of a new car, as well as other amenities, a first in the industry, according to Solomon.
In addition, Solomon said they, too, have their eye on new projects.
"We're looking into the future development of, you know, whatever forms of internet gaming might become legalized in the state or federally, so, we'll keep pushing on all fronts," Solomon said.
Solomon says the Motor City Casino has 280,000 guests currently enrolled in its reward program.
