Rev. Meeks Rejects Idea Of Casinos Funding Schools

December 5, 2010 8:45 AM

Illinois State Senator, Rev. James Meeks (D-Chicago) in Denver for the Democratic National Convention in 2008. (CBS)

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CHICAGO (WBBM) – While mayoral candidates Gery Chico and Miguel del Valle said they would favor a land based casino in the City of Chicago, rival hopeful Senator Rev. James Meeks is rejecting the idea.

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The Illinois Senate has approved a measure that would add at least 5 new state regulated casinos, including one in Chicago. It would allow existing casinos to expand, and give the green light to slot machines at horse racing tracks. Rev. Meeks said it is a bad idea.

“I voted against the bill. The reason I voted against the bill is that it is the largest expansion of gaming in Illinois history, and I don’t think we should fond our schools with river boats,” Meeks said.

The mayoral candidate said the city should not balance its budget on vices, like people gambling away their car payment, kids’ tuition, or other essentials.

Rev. Meeks Rejects Idea Of Casinos Funding Schools

JK

Just sell off the rights to that casino like we did with our parking meters. Just don’t build it in Chicago.
Cheryl

At a time when every dollar count. I am all for casinos. Our educational system needs funding. The system is funding with proceeds from the lottery.
Wally

When casinos first started, We were told it was to fund our schools and infustructures. Same ol song and dance while officials and politicians get fat and lie more.
antigambler

If five race-tracks, a Lottery, and nine casinos couldn’t solve Illinois’ budget problems, how will adding more of the same do it?

Einstein said that the definition of insanity is to do the same thing over and over again and to expect a different result.

Methinks, we have some insane people who favor doing more of the same by bringing more gambling to Illinois.