Canada: Edmonton council plans to oppose Camrose Casino relocation to city’s south

The Edmonton city council is preparing to formally challenge the proposed move of Camrose Casino to south Edmonton, expressing concerns about the impact on local communities and charities. The council has drafted a letter to Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) outlining these concerns.

This follows a previous denial by the AGLC last November, although a new proposal was accepted in January. If approved, the casino would retain its rural license, directing its charitable contributions to organizations outside Edmonton, which has sparked significant debate.

Ward Karhiio Councillor Keren Tang, whose district would host the relocated casino, has voiced her reservations. The city had initially maintained a neutral stance but raised concerns during the first application process, particularly about the move's potential effects on Edmonton's charitable sector.

"Two years later, none of those concerns are addressed," Tang said. She questioned why the city should remain neutral when the proposal could negatively impact Edmonton without any action from the AGLC or the provincial government.

Local residents have also been vocal in their opposition, with concerns ranging from increased traffic congestion to the potential social impact of adding another gambling venue to the area.

"It's a two-lane road, one lane either way, and it's quite congested most times of the day," said Daxesh Dalal, a resident of the area. He also expressed concern about potential negative effects of gambling: "I feel that adding another fuel to increasing addictions and mental health issues could lead to families suffering financially."

Councillor Erin Rutherford of Ward Anirniq pointed out that while the land where the casino would be located is already zoned for such a use, she does not support the move due to the expected negative effects on Edmonton’s charitable sector.

"This casino, as it's being proposed, is a net loss to Edmonton, as opposed to casinos in general," Rutherford commented, highlighting the broader impact on neighboring communities that rely on services provided by Edmonton non-profits.

According to the AGLC, the relocation could generate approximately CAD19 million in annual revenue, though local casinos might see a 2-5% reduction in their charitable income. Both Rutherford and Tang indicated they might reconsider their opposition if part of the charitable income from the relocated casino was allocated to Edmonton-based organizations.

"I think there needs to be a middle ground in terms of keeping part of that as a rural license, but a percentage that would make sure that the current charities don't lose any funding," Rutherford suggested.

The issue of charitable income distribution has been a longstanding debate, with rural municipalities advocating for changes they believe would better support their communities. Tang mentioned that Edmonton had previously proposed a model similar to that used in British Columbia, where casino earnings are distributed to charities through grants.

However, Tang noted: "We have not received a response. Nothing has changed on that front." The AGLC, in response, stated that a review of Alberta's charitable gaming model initiated in 2021 is still ongoing.

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi also weighed in, expressing his concern about the lack of communication from the AGLC regarding the proposed move. He warned that approving the relocation could reduce the revenue available to Edmonton charities, which are already struggling to provide critical services.

The mayor also noted that any resulting funding shortfall could lead these organizations to seek additional support from the city council, potentially leading to higher property taxes. The Edmonton city council is expected to vote on the final draft of the opposition letter at its August 20 meeting.