On behalf of the mayors of the United Southland (Alsip, Blue Island, Calumet City, Calumet Park, Chicago Heights, Country Club Hills, Crestwood, Dixmoor, Dolton, Ford Heights, Harvey, Hazel Crest, Midlothian, Phoenix, Posen, Riverdale, Robbins, Worth), we wholeheartedly support the efforts to bring a gaming license to the community of Country Club Hills (“City joins forces for casino license,” Metro, Jan. 23).
We feel that the south suburbs have long been overlooked and are in dire need of economic stimulus. The last decades have seen businesses and jobs leaving our communities. It is difficult to bring new businesses to our area, as current businesses are shutting their doors, downsizing and laying off employees. And now, as the national economy is rebounding, we have yet to see any of the benefits.
The proposed casino development will supply a sufficient influx of capital and jobs to revitalize our communities and the area’s economy as a whole. The project goes beyond a casino though. It will offer our communities choices of restaurants, shopping centers, hotels, theaters, etc. These amenities are welcome additions, and will benefit our economy greatly.
