WATCH: Self-excluded gamblers are concentrated near casinos and racetracks, implying that living close to a gambling opportunity led them to develop a serious problem. Mark McAllister reports.
TORONTO – Toronto city councillors will begin grappling today with the controversial plan of expanding gaming at the Woodbine Racetrack.
The proposed plan would see an enlarged gambling floor with room for an additional 2,000 slot machines and as many as 300 live dealer tables.
A report from the city’s acting city manager John Livey predicts this could mean an increase of up to $500 million in revenue and up to 1,400 new jobs at the site.
However, the city’s medical officer of health, David McKeown, wrote in a separate report that the community surrounding Woodbine would be at risk to the impacts of problem gambling.
READ MORE: Across Ontario, desperate problem gamblers surround casinos
Data compiled by Global News found that across Ontario, self-excluded gamblers are concentrated near casinos and racetracks implying that those living close to a gambling opportunity led them to develop a serious gambling problem.
Despite the health impacts, Mayor John Tory insists the Woodbine expansion is much more than just a gambling focused proposal.
The city’s official plan also involves creating an integrated entertainment complex that can attract new spending in the area, such as new hotels and restaurants, and meet community development objectives.
VIDEO: Toronto Mayor John Tory says he supports expanded gambling facilities at Woodbine racetrack for three reasons: jobs, jobs, and more jobs.
With a file from Patrick Cain
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