Next week’s Virginia casino voting will see residents in four cities of the commonwealth exercising their right to vote by casting their ballots.
A casino resort could potentially be introduced to Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth as the residents of each city participate in a voter referendum to decide the outcome.
Yet, as Election Day is merely a week ahead and early voting is already in progress, every casino race appears to have its own unique characteristics.
As we prepare for a crucial November 3rd in Virginia, let’s examine the significance of the 2020 casino referendums for the state.
Virginia casino voting down to wire
HB4 was passed by the Virginia House and Senate in March, effectively legalizing sports betting and casino gambling in the state as approved by the VA General Assembly.
By January, the initial Virginia sports betting companies are expected to commence operations online and begin accepting bets.
If the voter referendums prove successful, developers, regulators, and other important individuals will have a busy year ahead, despite the fact that the first Virginia casinos are not expected to open until 2025.
After obtaining approval from voters on Nov. 3, the certification of the results by the Secretary of State becomes necessary. Subsequently, each city will be able to officially propose its desired casino partner to the Virginia Lottery for evaluation. The final set of casino regulations will be provided to the cities by April 2021. Following this, the Virginia Lottery officials will commence the acceptance of formal applications, and they will have a maximum of one year to make a decision.
Initially, the VA legislature selected each potential casino host city based on:
- Property taxes
- Unemployment rate
- Poverty rate
- Population decrease
The concept is that every casino has the potential to generate employment opportunities, tax income, attract tourists, and contribute to the overall economic progress of its host city. Supporters have placed significant emphasis on these potential advantages.
On the other hand, critics have raised doubts about various aspects including the accuracy of job creation figures, transparency, level of experience, as well as the moral and societal consequences.
This year, referendums will be held in four out of the five cities to decide on the inclusion of casinos. However, Richmond will not be participating in this vote. Instead, the city will hold its own referendum in 2021 to determine the destiny of the proposed Pamunkey Casino Resort Richmond.
VA casino referendums by city
Here’s the latest election update regarding the casino ballot initiatives in four cities of Virginia set to be voted on in 2020:
Bristol casino voting
Hard Rock Casino and Resort Bristol is a valuable piece of real estate.
Partner: Hard Rock International
The former site of the Bristol Mall will be transformed into a lavish casino resort worth $400 million. This grand establishment will include all the amenities and facilities one would anticipate from a prominent resort. Additionally, the property will proudly boast a breathtaking 3,200-seat live music concert venue. This decision reflects Bristol’s profound connection to country music, which will be celebrated and showcased throughout the entire resort. Spearheaded by esteemed local business leaders Jim McGlothlin and Clyde Stacy, this project is set to make a remarkable impact in the community.
Summary: The election overview highlights the broad support for the project, including endorsements from influential figures such as the mayor, school board chairman, police chief, local newspaper, and Bristol business leaders. The newspaper’s op-ed board raised the question of whether Bristol can afford to reject this opportunity. Additionally, a pro-casino referendum committee has actively promoted the project. However, the main opposition has emerged from a coalition of churches in the Bristol area. These churches have funded billboards warning about the illusionary benefits of casinos and raise concerns about the project’s long-term viability.
Danville casino voting
Caesars Casino Resort in Danville is a property.
Partner: Caesars Entertainment
Danville’s proposed casino and resort, with a cost of $400 million, would encompass a wide range of amenities such as a hotel, convention center, arena, pool, spa, fitness center, as well as various dining and entertainment options. The renowned Caesars Entertainment has been designated to construct this establishment on the premises of the Dan River Mills industrial complex located in Schoolfield. The currently vacant facility, which has unfortunately become an unattractive sight along the riverfront, would undergo a complete transformation as part of this ambitious resort project.
Summary: The Danville City Council approved the Caesars deal with unanimous support. The “Caesars For Danville” campaign includes influential figures such as the mayor, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, and the president of Averett University. While opposition to the casino lacks organization, it manifests in various concerns, such as the casino’s societal impact, transparency, and potential effects on local businesses.
Norfolk casino voting
Pamunkey Casino Resort Norfolk is a sought-after property.
Partner: Pamunkey Indian Tribe
The proposed downtown Norfolk waterfront casino and resort, worth $500 million, is planned to be built on a 14-acre site adjacent to the Harbor Park minor league baseball stadium. The city of Norfolk has selected the Pamunkey Indian Tribe to undertake this project. The tribe, having gained federal recognition in 2016, has already commenced fulfilling its commitment to assist and reinvest in the community in collaboration with the city. Additionally, Tennessee billionaire Jon Yarbrough has expressed his support for the tribe and the casino venture.
Overview of the election: Supporters of the project, such as the All In for Norfolk Casino Committee and the Yes Norfolk PAC funded by the tribe, have emphasized the potential employment opportunities, tax revenue, and the positive impact on riverfront revitalization. Additionally, they have praised the project for its ability to diversify Norfolk’s economy, which is heavily reliant on military spending and transportation. However, Informed Norfolk, a well-organized opposition group, has raised concerns about the Pamunkey tribe’s lack of experience in similar projects, the lack of transparency in the deal, and the tribe’s history with discriminatory laws.
Portsmouth casino voting
Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort is a property.
Partner: Rush Street Gaming
Rush Street Gaming plans to construct a $300 million casino, hotel, and entertainment complex at the intersection of Victory Boulevard and Cavalier Boulevard. However, they might encounter rivalry from a potential Norfolk casino situated close by. Assuming both projects are approved by voters, the two properties would be roughly six miles away from each other.
Overview of the election: Portsmouth has been considered a potential casino location for almost ten years, attracting the attention of various stakeholders. Consequently, many of the inquiries and apprehensions have already been resolved. Furthermore, numerous supporters argue that the current timing is crucial as Norfolk might establish its casino first and reap the benefits if it remains the only one in the vicinity. Nevertheless, opposition to the Portsmouth casino has emerged in various manifestations, with influential community figures actively involved in the opposing group.
Related Articles
