Toronto developer Noah Shopsowitz is pushing for a referendum on a casino in the city. And he wants it this year.
If it doesn’t happen quickly, it isn’t likely to happen at all, according to the Toronto Sun. Councillors would have to advance the measure by the end of April in order to get it on the ballot for the October 27 election. Prior to the April 30 deadline, the government would have to consult on the matter and also give 10 days notice before any bylaw could be passed.
Shopsowitz is undeterred. He believes a downtown casino would provide an economic boost to the city. Although council rejected a casino last year, Shopsowitz is pushing councillors to approve a referendum on a casino to let residents decide.
A city spokesman also pointed out that two-thirds of council would have to support reopening the May 2013 decision to reject a casino. “It kind of makes me think we could have a recount on it—get it back into the hands of the public and let’s see what the real number is,” he said.
Councillor Adam Vaughan doubts residents would vote for a casino if a referendum is held. “The casino has about as much luck getting approved in a referendum as Rob Ford does getting reelected mayor,” Vaughan said. Ford still holds office despite several incidences of illegal drug use and public drunkenness.
