Business leaders plan proposal for casinos

Monday, Sept. 19, 2005 | 10:26 a.m.

CLEVELAND -- A civic-minded organization of Cleveland area business leaders plans to write a proposal in support of casino gambling.

The Greater Cleveland Partnership's board of directors voted Wednesday to try to build a statewide coalition and shape a proposal to change Ohio's constitution and allow casinos. A recent study the partnership backed concluded that gaming is potentially beneficial.

A coalition of casino interests, including racetrack owners and developers, has favored a casino proposal for the November 2006 ballot. State Rep. Bill Seitz, R-Cincinnati is trying to coordinate that effort. He said he's open to the Cleveland partnership's approach.

"Having business interests of Cleveland engaged in forging a consensus is a very positive step," Seitz said. "If they want my help, I will do what I can."

The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is also seeking casinos in Ohio.

Casino opponents have said there are significant social costs, such as gambling addiction.

Joe Roman, the partnership's executive director, said that if a coalition and casino proposal can be forged by the end of the year, the partnership would take a final vote on whether to endorse a joint effort.