Despite opposition, casinos still on track
Proposed slot parlors are still on track to open in Philadelphia in the coming years, despite protests by local residents.
Five companies have applied for the two Philadelphia licenses and are awaiting the decision of the Pennsylvania Gaming Board.
Hearings for the licenses will begin Nov. 13, and the licenses are scheduled to be awarded Dec. 20.
In 2004, the Pennsylvania legislature approved Act 71, a bill that would bring 14 gambling venues to the state. Both of the venues that will open in Philadelphia will be slot-machine parlors.
The planned tax revenue from the casinos will allow the state to lower property taxes.
On June 1, a group of over 100 Philadelphia citizens gathered in front of the State Building in Center City to launch Casino Free Philadelphia in opposition to the proposed slot parlors.
The rally was partially in response to the June 2 deadline on public comment to the Gaming Board.
Independent gubernatorial candidate Russ Diamond, also co-founder of the political activist group PA Clean Sweep, spoke at the event, promoting the repeal of Act 71.
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