{"id":521372,"date":"2024-05-15T22:13:29","date_gmt":"2024-05-15T22:13:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insidebitcoins.com\/?p=521372"},"modified":"2024-05-17T11:44:28","modified_gmt":"2024-05-17T11:44:28","slug":"vancouver-council-approves-expansion-of-casino-slot-machines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/insidebitcoins.com\/news\/vancouver-council-approves-expansion-of-casino-slot-machines","title":{"rendered":"Vancouver Council Approves Expansion of Casino Slot Machines"},"content":{"rendered":"

Recently, the ABC councilors approved a ruling that permits new applications from the B.C. Lottery Corporation (BCLC) to increase the number of slot machines<\/a> and gaming tables at existing venues like the Parq Casino and Hastings Racecourse. This ruling, as reported by CTV News Vancouver, does not, however, allow for the construction of new casinos.<\/p>\n

Among the councilors, Mike Klassen, Lisa Dominato, Rebecca Bligh, Peter Meiszner, and Lenny Zhou supported the staff recommendation to relax gambling restrictions<\/a>. Peter Meiszner highlighted that the proposal is modest, only permitting the addition of machines within currently operating casinos, not the expansion or creation of new facilities.<\/p>\n

The decision was not unanimous, with ABC councilor Sarah Kirby-Yung opposing the proposal. Kirby-Yung raised concerns based on the staff report initiated by the BCLC, which projects a $5 million increase in Vancouver’s annual gambling revenue. She argued that this significant financial forecast implies a substantial increase in gambling activities<\/a> in the city.<\/p>\n

About Vancouver<\/h2>\n

Vancouver, British Columbia<\/a>, is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver offers residents and visitors a mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. The city’s economy is robust, driven by industries such as technology, film production, tourism, and international trade through its port, the largest in Canada. Vancouver’s cultural fabric is enriched by its diverse population, with significant communities from around the globe, making it a cosmopolitan hub on the west coast of Canada.<\/p>\n

Opposition to the Amendment<\/h2>\n

Vancouver’s medical health officer, Dr. Mark Lysyshyn, also strongly opposed the amendment. Dr. Lysyshyn emphasized the potential harms of increased gambling<\/a>, including stress, anxiety, depression, and financial difficulties, and reminded lawmakers that gambling addiction is recognized as a mental illness. He pointed out that even a small increase in addiction rates could have significant negative impacts on families and communities.<\/p>\n

Councilors from OneCity and the Green Party, including Christine Boyle, Adriane Carr, and Pete Fry, also voted against the proposal. Fry criticized the lack of comprehensive public consultation and questioned the legality of amending the 2011 moratorium. Carr called for more public engagement, noting that the original moratorium followed extensive public hearings.<\/p>\n

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Vancouver council open to increasing slots, table games at existing casinos — with conditions https:\/\/t.co\/3utZrCJMG3<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/gzLMfu7BBY<\/a><\/p>\n

— The Province (@theprovince) May 9, 2024<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n