A casino project has been proposed in western Maine and three ski resorts in the area are opposed to the build. The resorts believe a casino would take away from the state’s image as a family friendly place where you can enjoy outdoor life and activities.

This past Wednesday, Sunday River, Sugarloaf USA and Saddleback all announced their opposition of the casino. If voters approve, a $150 million casino will be built in Oxford County. A spokeswoman for the casino, Pat LaMarche, has stated the ski resorts are opposed because higher wages offered by the casino would take away employees from their businesses.

The general manager of Sunday River, Dana Bullen, has stated in a memo to workers that the “brand” of Maine and the casino would be incompatible. "Maine is known for its rugged outdoor image, uncompromised natural beauty, family-friendly environment and Yankee originality," he wrote. "There is a stark contrast between these attributes, for which Maine is known, and those associated with casino gambling."

LaMarche contests that the ski resorts were not opposed to earlier attempts to win approval for a casino or slot machines when there was not an impact on their workers, she stated: “So clearly this is not about Maine “branding”.

By November 4th both sides will see what will happen with the proposed casino. My bet is it will be passed as a new casino would bring new jobs and help the economy.



- 2008-10-09