The idea of allowing Twin River and Newport Grand to become full casinos has picked up steam.  There is talk of a referendum on next year's ballot which would ask Rhode Islanders if the two facilities should be allowed to become casinos.  Reverend Eugene McKenna had a good question:  “How many times will we be asked the same question?”   I would like to take a minute to answer this question.

     At first glance, it seems like the same question, but in reality it is much different. When Harrah's wanted to build a casino in West Warwick, they seemed to be calling all the shots, which the General Assembly allowed.  The biggest problem was that the tax rate they wanted to pay was much less than what Twin River or Newport Grand would pay.  Harrah's facility probably would have pulled gambling dollars from Twin River and Newport Grand, so the state would have earned less.  Plus, why should Harrah's tell the state how much they will pay in taxes?  Could you or I tell the state how much we are willing to pay in taxes?  Finally, Harrah's would have built a new facility with a questionable neighborhood impact.  Residents in Lincoln and Newport already know what to expect from their respective facilities.  All that would change are the mix of activities.

     I don't know Reverend McKenna, but I suspect he would oppose any gambling legislation.  I respect his opinion, but I had to point out the differences in this potential question.  Allowing Twin River and Newport Grand to become casinos is the best way to add revenue without the controversy surrounding a casino.  The potential revenue is too lucrative to ignore.