Charleston Regional Chamber of Commerce Supports Referendum

The Charleston Regional Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the gaming referendum in Kanawha County on the August 11, 2007 ballot. If passed by a majority of the public, the referendum would allow the Tri-State Racetrack & Gaming Center complex in Kanawha County to expand its facility, creating an additional 1000 new jobs and a capital investment of more than $250 million.

Jim Sturgeon, Chair of the Charleston Chamber, says the endorsement of the referendum is based on new job creation, increased tourism for the region and support of the tax base. “This project alone will create over 900 permanent jobs in Kanawha County and help to solidify our tax base that supports our schools and education systems. Our Chamber Board of Directors has deliberated on the issue and endorses the referendum and encourages the voters of Kanawha County to support the referendum on August 11.”

From an economic development standpoint, Matthew Ballard, President of the Charleston Chamber, believes passage of the referendum will add a positive element to the regional economy. “There is an important missing piece to our local economy – a consistent over-night tourism draw to the area. The passage of this referendum will draw more out-of-state tourists to the entire county, and when tourism increases on this scale everyone benefits.”