Ask question

It seems referendums on casinos are almost as common here as those held in Quebec to determine its future.
Despite a majority saying “no” back in 1997, town council appears poised to put the issue before voters yet again during the upcoming municipal election on Oct. 27—yesterday approving the wording of the question.
Whether it appears on the ballot remains to be seen, however, as council now has to seek public input on whether to seek public input on the matter.
As silly as that sounds, it’s clear the community is still divided on the notion of building a casino here some 17 years later.
Supporters, citing the popularity of such gaming facilities south of the border, see a casino as a way to draw visitors to Fort Frances—bringing in money to local businesses and Civic Centre coffers while also creating much-needed jobs.
Detractors, of course, lament the potential social consequences of casinos, particularly with regards to fuelling gambling addictions and related problems.
It’s also clear, however, that times have changed here since 1997. The promise of gold mines opening up in the area, though positive, is countered by the pall hanging over our community as the mill remains idled.
The will of the electorate, in turn, also may have shifted.
Whether a casino ever comes to Fort Frances ultimately rests with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. What it requires is consensus from the community to be considered.
As such, council should go ahead with the referendum question—and let the chips fall where they may.