While the Camrose Casino approved to be built in southeast Edmonton is getting pushback from city hall, rural leaders say it’s crucial for charities in their community.
“The average take for a charity is $9,000-$10,000, whereas in the urban casinos, it can be as high as $70,000,” said Paul McLaughlin, the president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta.
It’s not just the money, it’s how quickly charities cash in from casino nights. The president of the group representing rural municipalities in Alberta says it can take up to two years for a local charity to receive their money.
They’re applauding the Alberta Liquor Gaming and Cannabis Commission’s (AGLC) approval to relocate and build the Camrose Casino in southeast Edmonton.
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“The reality is, you can be a hockey team in Edmonton and every 24 months get $70,000 which is a lot of money for a hockey team, which really does actually happen. Whereas my small community group in rural Alberta would get $8,000. It would take them 7-8 times longer which is about 28 years if you do the rough math.”
Edmonton’s mayor has expressed his opposition to the relocation, saying casino dollars won’t stay in Edmonton and have traffic impacts on local residents as well as requiring significant road upgrades to the area.
A proposal to build the casino was rejected by Alberta’s gaming commission two years ago.
The AGLC said in a statement this proposal is different including the ownership group and games for the site. Adding in part
“While, community feedback is one part of the casino relocation process and contributes to but does not alone determine a final decision. The AGLC Board carefully considered the viability of the current location, the proposed sale of the casino to a new management group, the impact on Edmonton and rural charities, impact on other Alberta casinos in addition to other factors.”