A proposal to build a casino in downtown Minneapolis has locals and lawmakers wondering if it's a good deal for the city. The governor wants more than the suggested 25% take of revenues, but others say even that is not worthwhile.
"The downtown project would be a major expansion of gambling in the state, which has 18 casinos, all owned by tribes. Proponents say the proposed casino, which would be state-owned, could generate $400 million in revenue a year and create 2,400 gambling jobs. That sort of economic impact could prove enticing for state lawmakers still wrestling with a $5 billion budget deficit, though many lawmakers in both parties oppose expanding gambling.
DFL Sen. Linda Higgins, who represents downtown, said she was skeptical that the facility would deliver on the promises of the developers.
'It'll bring pawn shops to downtown, if what has happened elsewhere is accurate,' Higgins said."
Others worry that the approval of the casino would have a domino effect in other cities, creating a rash of casinos throughout the state.
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