Pulaski voters resolve in November on bringing gaming facility to city

PULASKI, Va. (WDBJ) – A referendum on whether or not to deliver a Churchill Downs gaming facility to Pulaski is formally on the November poll. Voters will make the ultimate choice on Nov. 3.

Churchill Downs has recognized two vacant buildings on East Main Street as potential areas however has not but chosen a web site.

Pulaski Town Manager Todd Day stated the city is dealing with tens of thousands and thousands of {dollars} in water and sewer initiatives with no simple technique to pay for them.

“That’s a rate hike of an average of 25% for three consecutive years. These things are not want to dos. They’ve got to be done,” Day stated.

Churchill Downs estimates the power may herald at the very least $1 million a 12 months for Pulaski. A state price range modification that took impact in July now requires all gaming tax income to remain within the host group somewhat than be cut up with different localities.

Ryan Saylor, a spokesman for Commonwealth Wins — the group behind the referendum — stated which means Pulaski retains each greenback generated.

“You’re not sending your revenue off to Richmond. You’re not sending your revenue to Washington D.C. It’s staying right here,” Saylor stated.

Gary Marion, proprietor of The Corner Deli on East Main Street, stated the financial strain on small companies in Pulaski is actual.

“Every penny counts when you’re in the food business and competing with the McDonald’s and the Hardee’s and the Wendy’s,” Marion stated.

Marion stated a gaming facility may open new alternatives for the group.

“It opens up so many windows, so many doors that people could — we could all benefit from,” Marion stated.

Some residents have expressed ethical and social objections to playing in the neighborhood. Others say they need assurances that city leaders will spend any tax income responsibly.

Day stated the financial influence can be significant.

“It’ll make a difference. It’ll absolutely make a difference,” Day stated.

Pulaski voters will forged their ballots on the referendum Nov. 3.