Inhabitants of Richmond, Virginia have consistently expressed their disapproval towards a proposed initiative aimed at developing a casino. The proposed $562 million project was set to foster the development of the Richmond Grand Resort and Casino, a brand new casino complex located near Interstate 95. Advocates highlighted the potential economic stimulus, a bolster in tourism and a boost to local enterprises. Detractors of the scheme, however, expressed concerns related to financial difficulties and increased crime rates associated with the establishment of a casino in Richmond.
In the year 2021, the Richmond electorate was once more invited to cast their vote for or against the casino enterprise. During that round, about 51% of the citizens rejected the project, while the reminder showed their support. Now, according to an NBC12 report, the opposing percentage appears to have grown, with around 61% of Richmond dwellers voting against the casino development. The report drew data from the Virginia Board of Elections.
The results of this recent referendum present after an intense tug-of-war between the supporters and the opponents of the Richmond casino enterprise. In the later part of the previous month, No Means No Casino, an anti-casino organization established by Paul Goldman, claimed victory over a legal dispute about voter registration lists against the state. The US District Court for the Eastern District Court of Virginia ruled in Goldman’s favor, instructing the Virginia Board of Elections to grant him access to these lists, a fairly common practice in politics.
This legal win allowed No Means No Casino to maintain its staunch stance against the casino initiative, notwithstanding apprehensions about the substantial financial resources of their adversaries. The recent results reveal that despite heavy spending in favor of the project, the residents of Richmond have once again obstructed its advancement.
Gratitude Expressed by Richmond Grand Resort towards Supporters
Following the disclosure of the referendum results, Levar Stoney, Mayor of Richmond, issued a statement: “My commitment to serve communities that have been historically marginalized and neglected will remain unwavering.” He emphasized his dedication towards job creation, affordable child care, and broadening career opportunities for all members of the city’s populace.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the thousands of residents of Richmond who gave their vote for a robust employment market and a stronger city, especially those residing in the southside who vehemently supported this project,”
said Richmond Grand Resort and Casino in a public statement
Richmond Grand Resort announced that it felt honored to initiate a campaign designed to generate novel opportunities for the population of the city. The faction endorsing the expansion of casino gambling expressed their gratitude towards all Richmond dwellers who repose faith in the project, envisaged to breathe new life into the city with job creation and economic boost.
