Ward 11 candidate John Lindsay is responding to comments made about him in the local media recently.
Lindsay was mentioned specifically in an Oct. 13 letter to the editor published by the Sudbury Star that takes aim at some of his stances when it comes to big projects in the city.
"I entered this election in order to present objective verifiable information and offer an alternative to those who feel that big projects are going to be good for the city when there is little evidence to suggest this will take place and indeed the opposite may be the result," said Lindsay in his news release.
The writer of the article states that the Kingsway Entertainment District will be a big plus for Sudbury's economy, an opinion not held by Lindsay.
"The current slots and any expansion of gambling will result in revenue for the city, but only as some have suggested “5 cents on the dollar”. The overall economy will be worse off as fewer dollars will be available in the community for once again tangible use," said Lindsay.
"Any jobs created at a Casino site and various suggested amenities will simply replace those in other areas – there will be no net gain. Any construction jobs are only temporary. This is what has taken place in other jurisdictions where Casinos have been built."
Full text of Lindsay's news release can be found below:
Candidate Lindsay response to negative comments in Newspaper.
As I was specifically negatively referred to in recent article by Eric Tattersall (Star – Oct 13th – Big Projects Good for City) I would like to respond as a candidate in the current election and also an appellant in the forthcoming LPAT hearings.
The opinions held by Mr. Tattersall are those of a number of citizens however do not stand up to reality. Comparing money leaving the city from those shopping to those gambling is simply misrepresentation. Except for a very few there is nothing to be gained from gambling whereas money spent in retail, local or otherwise does constitute a return of tangible value.
The current slots and any expansion of gambling will result in revenue for the city, but only as some have suggested “5 cents on the dollar”. The overall economy will be worse off as fewer dollars will be available in the community for once again tangible use. Any jobs created at a Casino site and various suggested amenities will simply replace those in other areas – there will be no net gain. Any construction jobs are only temporary. This is what has taken place in other jurisdictions where Casinos have been built.
With respect to concerns of salt polluting Lake Ramsey from the KED Mr. Tattersall wonders why I have no concern with regards to subdivision development in the watershed. Quite simply, home use of salt on driveways and sidewalks contributes less than 2 percent of salt into the environment and subdivision streets are rarely if at all salted. The major salt entering the watershed comes from roadways and parking lots and more of these surfaces are what we object to.
It is our position that is increased gaming is to take place in the city is should be at the current site of the Slots in Chelmsford. Also that the present Arena be enhanced if necessary and the Art Junction project involving a new library, art gallery, convention/auditorium be put on hold until actual need is demonstrated and the ability to pay for this project without an increase in taxation and/or debt.
I entered this election in order to present objective verifiable information and offer an alternative to those who feel that big projects are going to be good for the city when there is little evidence to suggest this will take place and indeed the opposite may be the result.
I encourage those who want more information to visit my website wwwjohnlindsay.ca.
John Lindsay, councillor candidate – www.johnlindsay.ca. 705-507-6037
Learn more about Lindsay's candidacy on his election page on Sudbury.com.
