Harrah’s considering casino in Ohio

In addition to such Las Vegas landmarks as Bally’s, Caesars Palace and the Rio, Harrah’s Entertainment has expanded their casino empire across the American Midwest. Harrah’s casinos can be found in states such as Missouri, Illinois, Iowa and Indiana. Now the gambling giant has its sights set on expansion into Ohio. An e-mail that Harrah’s marketing department sent to customers in Ohio asked them for their opinions on a potential new casino site near the city of Cleveland.

Gaming options are expanding at an accelerated pace in the state. In addition to the seven horse race tracks and the state lottery, Governor Ted Strickland authorized a bill allowing for slot machines at the racetracks. A recent amendment to the state’s constitution up for a vote this November could bring as many as four full-scale casino gaming sites to the state.

Harrah’s spokesman Gary Thompson said that the e-mail approach is a normal part of new market research. He also stated that, while such an approach does not mean that plans to build a new casino are imminent, it is a method the firm uses to get a better idea as to how full-scale casino gaming will be received by customers, as well as if those customers would prefer the site to be built in a certain area of the city. Two of the areas under consideration would include racetracks Thistledown and Northfield Park.

The moves by both the state and by Harrah’s have not been met with unanimous approval. One industry expert claims that the introduction of slot machines to the state’s horse tracks will make them more lucrative targets for out-of-state companies such Harrah’s to buy out or partner with the track owners. In addition, a group of conservative activists has filed a motion with the state Supreme Court questioning whether either the legislature or the governor has the legal power to authorize slot machine gaming without a referendum.

Dan Gilbert, owner of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, also opposes Harrah’s entry into the state. He, along with one of the racetrack owners, has a stake in potentially building casinos all over the state if a different amendment receives voter approval. Both ballot measures go to the voters on November 3.