Loss of raceway slots to cost city millions

Some who work in the horse racing industry will rally at Windsor Raceway on Thursday.

Workers and others with a stake in its well-being will protest the Ontario government's plans to get rid of the slot machines there.

It's a decision that could affect the City of Windsor, too, because just for hosting the slots within the city limits, the city gets a percentage of the revenue. The city has raked in just about $28 million since the slots arrived 14 years ago. That's an average of nearly $2 million a year.  

OLG spokesperson Tony Bitonti said that payout won't stop immediately when the slots are pulled next month. 

"For the next year, they will continue getting that money," he said.

After that, it's game over. 

City treasurer Onorio Colucci said most of that money has gone to road repairs. Some of it has paid for programs for needy children.  

"It's certainly an important component," he said. "We've been holding the line on taxes, so something that reduces our revenues is certainly challenging." 

Mayor Eddie Francis said he has a meeting set up with the head of the OLG to talk about the loss. The mayor is ready to negotiate. 

"They know we are not meeting to exchange pleasantries or for the sake of ceremony," Francis said.

He plans to ask for more money to lessen the blow. He will also ask for retraining for workers who will be out of a job when we lose the slots.

More than 200 people will be out of work when the 750 slot machines are pulled out.