Mayor John Linder concerned about new Philadelphia casino

CHESTER, PA - Chester City Mayor John Linder expressed concern today about a pending Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) decision on a second Philadelphia casino speaking on the possible impacts to the city.  

Linder said the city has received $82 million from Harrah’s Philadelphia located in Chester since it opened. Revenue from the casino pays for essential services that benefit all residents and the casino provides good paying jobs. 

The mayor was speaking out because the PGCB is expected to approve a second casino soon and speculation is that it will be located near the Philadelphia sports stadiums. 

“New casinos in this market create greater competition for revenue, but that location in particular could potentially have an adverse affect on Chester’s allocation of those gaming revenues,” he said. 

Linder said when Harrah’s opened in 2007 Chester was in dire straits, with high unemployment and poverty rates. The casino there has been a boon to the economy, offering employment to Chester residents, and helped fund programs for children and senior citizens. Putting that funding in jeopardy could pose a challenge to the region. 

“The Gaming Board in their decision, need to strongly consider the regional and local impact their decision will have on Chester,” he said.