Sedgwick County, Kansas commissioners recently unanimously rejected a proposal to reopen Wichita Greyhound Park as a racino. The racetrack has been shuttered since August 2007, after overwhelmingly rejected a destination casino in the county. Instead, the Kansas Star Casino was built just south of the Sedgwick County line near Mulvane.
Wichita Greyhound Park owner Phil Ruffin has said he’ll reopen the facility if county voters allow slots and table games there. The commission had considered putting that question on the November ballot, but tabled that action indefinitely after several residents voiced opposition at the commission’s recent meeting.
Racetrack opponent Monica Marks said commissioners were catering to Ruffin. “We’ve already voted on this. This sounds like this rich guy is buying this vote,” she said.
Former Cessna Chief Executive Officer Russ Meyer agreed, noting that gambling is a state issue, not a county issue. “Sedgwick County spoke loud and clear on this issue in 2007 after months and millions of dollars spent on campaign advertising by the gambling interests,” he said.
Anti-gaming activist Donna Wirth said according to the legislation allowing slot machines at tracks, the venue would have to offer racing as before, despite strong opposition to it. Wirth stated that the proposed ballot measure did not mention a resumption of racing. “Is this the intent, getting someone’s vote by misrepresentation, subterfuge?” she asked. “Let people know what they will really be voting on. Do not vote for this back-door resolution on gaming machines, which if you put it on the ballot will deceive voters into authorizing greyhound racing in Sedgwick County. When is it okay to deceive constituents rather than being up front with them?”
Neighborhood activist George Theoharis was the sole voice in favor of the proposal. He said Sedgwick County residents will gamble no matter what the local government does. “If the only way to get the casino is to let greyhounds run, let it be. Keep that money in Sedgwick County The greyhounds must be treated properly, no cruelty.”
Dog racing is banned in 41 states. Other states, including Kansas, do not offer the races but still have legislation allowing it on the books.
