Passamaquoddy Tribe debates racino proposal

Friday, November 2, 2007

The Passamaquoddy Tribe of Maine saw support for its proposed racino at two public forums on Thursday.

The tribe is asking voters to approve a racetrack with slot machines in Washington County. Supporters say it will generate jobs and revenues in an economically-depressed area.

"We have been studied to death," Sen. Kevin Raye, a Republican, said at a forum in Bangor, The Bangor Daily News reported. "Meanwhile, our struggle continues. The time for study is over, the time for action is here."

A group called CasinosNO! opposes the project. The group's representative used to work for a cruise line that offers gaming.

Poll numbers show a majority of voters support the racino. The question is on the November 6 ballot.

Get the Story:
Foes face off on racino question (The Bangor Daily News 11/2)
Opinion by John R. Hanson: Racino Down East: a key opportunity (The Bangor Daily News 11/2)
Poll shows more Mainers favor racino (AP 11/1)