In the first year that all four of Ohio’s casino resorts and all seven of its racinos were open for business, they generated over billion in economic activity while employing over 7,000. This is considerably less than what voters were told in 2009 when they voted to authorize the four casinos, say critics.
March was the first time that all four casino resorts were open in the Buckeye state. In September the last of the seven racinos opened near Cleveland.
The four casinos produced $839 million, less than half of what supporters claimed would be produced. They say the promised numbers could still materialize once the gambling centers become established.
Some local industries, such as farmers who grow produce, have gotten considerable business from casinos.
According to one such grower, Tom Sirna, “Each casino has a huge buffet as well as multiple restaurants in them that all purchase produce as well as other items from the distributors.”
Another large produce company president, Anthony Arena, adds that his company services five restaurants at the Hollywood Casino in Columbus.
Shelly Okun of Sam Okun Produce Company in Toledo, has seen business grow due to the Hollywood Casino in Toledo. . “It has absolutely increased our business, and it has also given us the opportunity to be promoted by them, as working with the community is part of their mission,” he told the Packer.
