As a native and resident of Richmond, I am hopeful that a reopened Colonial Downs and horse racing in Virginia will thrive.  It is a beautiful facility and job provider.  However, I am concerned about the off track betting via historical horse racing machines. My concerns are:

1.  3,000 machines (with the possibility of more) is too many.  Kentucky has less than 2,000.  I'd hate to see empty stripmalls, warehouses and big box retailers become OTBs.  Surely, there are better redevelopment options for these sites.

2.   The concept that the Commission, with a statutory mandate to promote the industry it regulates, should enjoy the future authority to approve additional machines in unlimited numbers without any process to protect the interests of the public at large – is quite concerning.  Once a limit is set, it should only be altered by a new and robust regulatory process.

3.  The idea that a locality like Richmond should not have the right to choose its fate is truly unfortunate.  This is particularly so when the locations chosen for such facilities are likely to unduly impact local communities that can ill-afford it.  Richmond is enjoying a renaissance like none I have witnessed in my lifetime – this type of development is a step back, not a step forward.

In closing, I would urge you to lower the limits, only let them be changed through a proper regulatory process, and increase local authority such that no machines are allowed absent affirmative local endorsement.

Thank you for your consideration of my comments.

Ted Ukrop, Richmond Resident and Business Owner