Editor:
So the proposed casino will create new jobs?
Baloney! After construction is completed the only jobs created will be for gambling addiction counsellors.
Jim Armstrong, Surrey
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Now, despite having online gambling from BCLC 24 hours a day from the comfort of your home, despite having opportunities to gamble in Newton, Whalley, Cloverdale, New Westminster and Langley, despite having casinos down the freeway in Richmond and across the new bridge that promises to get us to Coquitlam’s casino in record time, the powers that be tell us there is need for yet another casino in South Surrey.
As well as being in an inappropriate, primarily rural and residential area, South Surrey is already trying to cope with power and water supply problems and clogged roads, due to the accelerated pace of development.
Casino tax money being dangled before council is a short-term prize if they choose to ignore long-term costs, such as increased infrastructure costs for roads, water, hydro, extra policing and court costs, to name some.
There are plenty of casinos a 30-minute drive from here to keep even the most determined gamblers happy.
Peter Battistoni, Surrey
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In two years time, if approved, Gateway will open the doors to its newest casino in South Surrey.
Two years ago, the residents of South Surrey were told a new high school would be built. Let’s not forget the students and parents who rallied against an unpopular plan to deal with the growing high school population.
We don’t have our high school, nor is it being built. We need schools, recreation centres, pools and parks.
The casino development for 10 Avenue and 168 Street is completely inappropriate for our area. At night we hear the alpacas/llamas across the highway in that area. We hear coyotes and owls as well. There are nesting bald eagles just a few houses away.
How about building our much-needed school; I hear there’s an ideal property at 10 Avenue and 168 Street.
Carole Robertson, Surrey
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From the timing-is-everything department…
Nov. 8 quote from Cliff Annable, executive director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce: The casino project is the best thing since sliced bread.
Nov. 15 quote from CNN News: Hostess, makers of Wonder Bread, have filed for bankruptcy.
Bill Dixon, Surrey