Pittsburgh
Task Force Won't Commit to Slot Funds
As reported by the Pittsburgh
Post-Gazette: "The Pittsburgh Gaming Task Force
isn't ready to require a slot machine casino operator
to put up money for a new arena or any other economic
development project.
"Although possible uses for potential slots
revenue from the Pittsburgh standalone casino were
discussed at a task force meeting yesterday, no
consensus emerged, co-chairman Ron Porter said.
"He said it is too early to recommend a specific
use because of the many options being tossed around
and debated.
"…Task force members, local politicians
and others are expecting competitors for the Pittsburgh
casino, which could have up to 5,000 slot machines,
to pledge a portion of its revenues to the community
in exchange for the state-issued operator's license.
"Both Mayor Tom Murphy, who appointed the
task force and sits in on meetings, and Allegheny
County Chief Executive Dan Onorato, who has a representative
on the board, see revenue from the casino as the
chief means of helping to finance a new arena.
"…The task force will take its recommendations
to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, which
will award the license for the Pittsburgh casino.
Members of the state board have said they will take
into account community desires and views in awarding
the license…"
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