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Commissioner speaks out against casino proposal

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2002 | 9:47 a.m.

PORTLAND, Maine -- Maine Labor Commissioner Valerie Landry has come out against the creation of a casino, saying it isn't the kind of economic development the state wants or needs.

She said the casino proposed by the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot Indian Nation tribes, with its promise of 4,740 jobs in southern Maine, doesn't fit the image Maine has worked to build.

"If the goal of economic development is a diversified economy with a preponderance of high-wage jobs, a casino won't spur it," Landry said.

Gov. Angus King, who leaves office in January, has already voiced his opposition to a casino in Maine.

Gov.-elect John Baldacci also has said he will veto any bill that would legalize casino gambling. However, the question and attached legislation could go to voters in November 2003 as a referendum question.

The tribes' proposal of a $650 million casino with an 875-room hotel, convention center, and golf course has won some support.

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