Does the Salem area need a casino?
Readers on StatesmanJournal.com suggested that question, so we put it to the community for discussion.
A casino would have to overcome a variety of legal and other hurdles.
In the early 1990s, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz wanted to build a casino on 16 acres in North Salem. The U.S. Interior Department initially supported
Since then, Oregon and other states have become more accustomed to and accepting of casinos. The Siletz opened their Chinook Winds Casino in Lincoln City 15 years ago. The closest casino to the Mid-Valley is Spirit Mountain. Owned by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, it ranks among Oregon's most popular tourist attractions.
The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs has identified a Cascade Locks industrial park as its preferred site for a new casino operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. The U.S. Department of Interior on Friday released an environmental impact statement for the Cascade Locks site.
Meanwhile, a private group wanted to change the Oregon Constitution to allow a non-tribal casino, but a proposed ballot measure is hung up in the courts. That casino is proposed for the former greyhound racing track in Wood Village, near Portland.
Here is a sampling of what readers had to say about whether the Salem area should someday try to attract a casino:
"I would say so. It would create jobs, provide a good restaurant and bring in some very good entertainment. I see no problem whether or not it is Indian run or not; nor whether it's located or or off tribal land.
"Think about Disneyland for adults. OK, some would say we need less gambling, not more. But that is like saying no more restaurants as too many of us are obese. But think of the number of jobs it would create. It would be a positive for the entire mid-valley, I'd be willing to bet.
— StatesmanJournal.com user mahzeltoffee
"Based on the lottery outlets I pass when I drive anywhere, I'd have to say, 'No, we already have a giant casino called taverns and restaurants. It employs thousands of people, it's spread out all over town so there are never traffic or parking problems and it soaks the poor and/or stupid for satisfactory amounts of the little money they have right now.'
"Why would we want to cut anyone else in on that action? There is not an unlimited supply of chumps you know."
— StatesmanJournal.com user TimPfau
"Yes, I'd love to see a casino here in Salem. ... Native or not, it would be a great shot to Salem's economy and employment situation.
"People already bypass Salem on their way to the coast, be it for gambling or leisure. Our location along the I-5 would be ideal for those from Portland and Eugene who would rather not negotiate the long, crowded two-lane drive to the coast, as well as Bend and Eastern Oregon. ...
"And many local dollars would stay right here in our community. It's a win, win."
— StatesmanJournal.com user keyjo
"I say absolutely not. ...
Nothing good comes to a community that allows one of these casinos in. Nothing. ..."
— StatesmanJournal.com user SalemSucks
"Yes!! I love a good prime rib dinner and a little gambling. For now, I have to drive to Spirit Mountain. I only spend $20 on slots and when I go, I usually make back what I spent for dinner and gambling, then stop. You have to be adult about it and have personal limits. ..."
— StatesmanJournal.com user parentingirl
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