OUT IN Western Massachusetts, a potential bidding war for a casino license for the region has yielded lively discussions about how to reinvigorate Springfield and how best to secure benefits for the city. Here in the Boston area, though, the only bidder so far — a group involving the Suffolk Downs racetrack — has already begun tamping down expectations about what it might deliver when.
Its maneuverings should be a warning to potential casino sites across the state, and to a Massachusetts Gaming Commission charged with maximizing the long-term economic benefits of a problematic industry.
Comments
The possibility that large scale gambling resorts may not make a profit should be seriously considered. There are too many plans in too many states, drawing on the same clientel, to be a safe business. We are about to enter a long period of economic difficulties no matter who is elected and I would not be surprised to see casino revenue drop and drop a lot.
I visited both Las Vegas and Reno (1 visit each) years ago. I found out I am not a good gambler. It seemed I could not stop playing the slots until my money was gone. Fortunely, I never played again.
What I observed during the time I was in those cities, was that gambling didn't seem like a pleasant experience to the people living in the environs of the casinos. I saw too many desparate faces and too many ploys that targeted them. "Bet your paycheck" screamed one billboard. Slots in every store, in the gas stations, in the coffee shops, in the airports.
It's fine and dandy to spend a few days blowing money for a good time, but those who go back day after day or paycheck after paycheck don't seem to be having fun.
There are too many weak people who won't be able to withstand the lure of easy money. We must consider these potential problems before we welcome casinos with open arms.