Some fear slots will hurt economy

LAUREL, Md. (Map, News) - Officials are concerned that slot machines at Laurel Park could derail a booming local economy and deter potential employers, including incoming federal contractors.

“If I [were] a business owner employing thousands of people, I would be very leery being two miles from a casino that would affect the productive employees,” said County Councilman Jamie Benoit, D-District 4, who opposes slots at Laurel Park.

Elected officials and neighborhood advocates say slots aren’t needed at Laurel Park because the area is under revitalization.

Across the Patuxent River in the city of Laurel, a major retail-commercial development called Konterra is planned for the west side of the city, and Laurel Mall will be redeveloped.

In Anne Arundel, Maryland City and neighboring communities could see an economic boon from the Base Realignment and Closure at Fort Meade that is expected to bring in 22,000 jobs.

But BRAC contractors may not locate in western Anne Arundel if slots come to Laurel Park, some say.

“With BRAC expansion, we have a growing economy on science and technology,” said County Executive John R. Leopold. “That’s where we should focus our energy.”

But others say the negative economic effect is unfounded and see water and road systems as the biggest issues facing Laurel Park.

“I don’t see it as a concern,” said Claire Louder, executive director of the West Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, which supports well-regulated slots as a last-resort remedy.

“I’m more concerned about the infrastructure around the track, which is discouraging. Places like Biloxi, Miss., and Las Vegas seem to do just fine.”

If the decision were up to voters, who could have a say by way of a 2008 referendum, the economic concerns of leaders could be voiced by the surrounding communities that oppose slots.

“We need families and schools ... and you don’t want to fund that responsibility with a vice tax,” said Tim Wayburn, president of the Russett Civic Association, whose group is concerned about adult-entertainment venues and crime ruining the local economy and property values.

“It’s a poison pill we don’t need to swallow.”

AT A GLANCE

Gov. Martin O’Malley revealed a plan that would bring to Laurel Park 4,250 of 15,000 slot machines statewide. He said he wants the millions of dollars generated to pay for schools and save the horse industry.

jflanagan@baltimoreexaminer.com

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