Casinos bleed local economy

This year’s last-minute mischief by the Iowa Legislature yielded a two-year moratorium on new casino licenses. Legislators thus have postponed Cedar Rapids’ bid for this odious intrusion into the local economy and satisfied casino-connected political donors. What a bunch they are. What else can one expect from an industry whose business model depends on draining the wallets and bank accounts of gambling addicts (my late brother was one) and that sought and obtained exemption from indoor smoking rules because casino operators can’t stand the thought of someone stepping outside for a smoke — or for second thoughts.

If the moratorium holds, consider it a two-year reprieve for the current variety of Cedar Rapids nightlife. Once a casino opens — and it remains worthy to stop it — the range of eating, drinking, and entertainment options here will wither, as it has in Dubuque and Davenport and other cities where casinos tempt the public with a lame stream of tax revenue, pitifully few charitable donations, and promises of other gifts.

Contrary to city leaders’ beliefs, casinos do not boost the local economy. They bleed it. Last-minute, secretive legislative actions usually stink, but this one you should hope the governor will sign.

Kurt Rogahn

Cedar Rapids