Our family had enjoyed live horse racing at Colonial Downs in New Kent for years since we live in Williamsburg. It was a great place to bring friends and relatives who came to visit us for a fun afternoon.  We were sad to see it close but we are excited about its re-opening for racing.  However, we have serious concerns about the regulations you are considering for the simulcast racing machines.  These machines serve more like slot machines and look quite different than they had in years past.  We both fear that the number of these machines is considerably higher than what is necessary for Virginia. We understand that Virginia would have double the number of machines than other states close by, such as Kentucky. I also bring to your attention the fact that all the original satellite betting facilities were passed by local referendums and it is my opinion that they should be passed again since not only has time and technology changed, but citizens and local government still deserve a say on gaming.  These facilities were placed in some economically challenging areas initially and that has to change as well.  Please be more cautious about your approach and not focus entirely on the potential revenue.  Remind yourselves that this concept has failed before and we all must remember to learn from past mistakes.  3,000 machines may sound reasonable for those desperate to race horses, but it is not reasonable to expect success if not limited further or rolled out over time for those betting this concept wins.

Amy & Brian Jensen