By Karen Graham
Ontario Gaming East Limited Partnership (OGELP) announced on Tuesday that it is moving forward with proposed plans to develop and operate a new, multi-faceted entertainment property in the City of Peterborough, which means the current operation at Kawartha Downs will be relocated. This announcement follows a recent staff report to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the extension of the Parkway. In the report, staff expressed the city’s interest in hosting a new casino and identified the location adjacent to the existing Parkway / Crawford Drive intersection, in close proximity to Highway 115, as an ideal location for a future OLG Casino. This is the site of choice indicated by the Tuesday announcement. Located at 1400 Crawford Drive, the operation would feature a series of non-gaming amenities to complement a gaming floor comprised of slot machines and table games.
“We are excited about the prospect of a Shorelines gaming operation being developed in the City of Peterborough, but we recognize that there are a series of approvals necessary from the City, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the Government of Ontario, before we can proceed,” said Andy LaCroix, Executive Director, Ontario Operations, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation. “OGELP will strive to be an employer of choice and an economic contributor focused on being an active community participant, should we receive all necessary approvals,” added LaCroix.
The long anticipated decision is a financial blow to the township. Mayor McFadden believes the decision may have far-reaching implications for all of Peterborough County where agriculture remains a significant economic driver, as the decision has a potential impact on harness racing in the region. As for the township, some funding will continue from OLG will continue from Kawartha Downs from the track from the Horse Racing Partnership fund as long as live horse racing events continue at this location.
Chief Administrative Officer Yvette Hurley confirmed that every effort to support the retention of this gaming business has been and continues to be taken, including appropriate zoning and Official Plan requirements, suggesting that the Cavan Monaghan location is a turn-key solution with room to grow. In addition to the series of approvals from the city, the province and OLG, the relocation remains subject to the hurdle of public opinion amongst Peterborough residents. Prior to the announcement, the Peterborough anti-casino lobby was already in action requesting a renewed debate to determine whether they will welcome a casino in town.
