The Ottawa, Ontario, Canada city council voted 18-5 to approve an amendment allowing Hard Rock Casino Ottawa to build a $318 million development at the Rideau Carleton Raceway. The project will permit the casino to add 20 gaming tables to its current 35, as well as build a 2,500-seat theatre, 9-story hotel and 1,200-vehicle parking facility. Completion is expected by 2022.
Supporters said instead of spending $70 million annually at the Lac Leamy Casino in Gatineau, players would gamble at the Hard Rock, keeping that money in the local economy. The project also would create 3,100 construction jobs and 900 permanent new jobs.
Opposing councillors noted the amendment does not place a limit on slot machines, just able games. Concern also was expressed that problem gambling would strain Ottawa public health resources. Mayor Jim Watson noted the provincial government provides help to addicted gamblers. “Province has 100 per cent responsibility for addressing problem gambling. We shouldn’t support the province in this. They get the biggest cut from casinos,” he said.
