FOX19.com and FOX19 News, weather, traffic, and sports for Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky | Casinos In Northern Kentucky?
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Besides corruption, the other big issue in the Kentucky governor's race was casino gambling.
Ernie Fletcher opposed it, but governor-elect Steve Beshear sees casinos as a way to fund education, and to keep funds from flowing to Indiana. So he wants to put the issue on the ballot.
How's the Tri-state reacting to possibly putting casinos in northern Kentucky? FOX19's Sara Gouedy finds out.
Buzz about a possible casino in northern Kentucky certainly has picked up.
The general manager of Turfway Park tells FOX19 it's possible we could see a casino right here at this racetrack as early as 2009.
Horse racing and gambling go together already at the Turfway Park, and that's part of why racetrack management hopes to expand gaming with a casino built right on the property.
"We've seen the benefits to the horse industry as well as the communities in which these facilities operate in many other states," said Bob Elliston, CEO of Turfway Park.
Elliston spoke to FOX19 by phone after meeting with Harrah's gaming representatives in Las Vegas.
But when it comes to casinos, not everyone's willing to bet on it just yet.
"It's premature. Governor-elect Beshear simply stated that he would like to see the issue placed on a ballot for a vote of the people," said Florence mayor Diane Whalen.
Most northern Kentucky residents we spoke with said it can't get on the ballot soon enough.
We only found one person who didn't care for a racetrack casino.
"I would probably stop and gamble. Spend some money that I shouldn't, but you know, I would do it," said resident Billie Miller.
"I think it's a great idea. It seems like its going to allow more revenue to come into Kentucky so I think it's a good idea," said Justin Boh.
"We need the gambling here instead of Indiana," added Mark Toole.
The earliest we're hearing a casino vote could happen is November 2008.
