February 24, 2009
GALVESTON - This Texas island city is fighting another hurricane, but this time
it is an economic storm. Since hurricane Ike, the town has declined in
population by a third down to 45,000. Some city leaders believe the only hope
for its economy by be legalized casinos to attract tourists.
"Galveston has to put everything on the table as an answer for an economic
recovery," said Allen Flores, president of the merchants association in the
historic downtown Strand district. "We're dependent on tourism now more than
ever."
Gambling is presently banned in Texas, but several casino-related bills are
before the Texas legislature. They are opposed by social conservative groups and
Gov. Rick Perry. If any of the bills are enacted by the legislature, the voters
of Texas would have final approval.
Supporters point to examples in other Gulf Coast states. Both Mississippi and
Louisiana have fiscal budgets that benefit from gaming revenues.
Return to Texas Casinos.
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