Dear Commissioners:

I write as a resident of my beloved City of Richmond and as an experienced practitioner of criminal law in all the courts of the city, both north and south of the James River.  Because I am interested in issues that may implicate social justice, I have closely followed recent developments related to gambling in our Commonwealth generally and in the City of Richmond specifically.  I now urge this Commission to move carefully, thoughtfully, and slowly with respect to the issue of slot machines in order support the horse racing industry.  Specifically, I understand that the horse racing industry would like to install up to 700 slot machines in the City of Richmond while reserving the ability to install more should the horse racing industry believe it is necessary for the generation of revenue.  There are two reasons for concern.  The first is the issue of the impact that slot machine parlors can have on the community where they are placed.  Richmond is a city finally enjoying economic growth and development.  Permitting the blanket installation of slot machines in strip malls will retard economic development and may negatively impact communities most in need of economic assistance.  As someone who follows trends and patterns related to economic justice, crime, blight, and renewal, I am aware that the locations that are chosen for slot machine parlors are often populated by communities more likely to be negatively affected by such facilities and least able to voice their objection to the installation of such establishments.  I am concerned that the horse racing industry will be supported, at least in part, by the revenues generated by these machines and taken from members of these populations, suggesting a reverse Robin Hood scheme of sorts.  I believe that the City of Richmond, and all local governments, should have the opportunity to endorse or reject the installation, number, and placement of these machines.  Second, it is troubling that the Commission, which has the statutory charge to promote the horse racing industry, is the entity with the ability to approve additional slot machines.  While it is certainly true that the Commission has the authority to act inside its mandate, given the sensitive and potentially community changing nature of these machines, there should be no change to the limit on number of machines without meaningful process.  Moreover, 3,000 of these machines is a tremendous number to introduce in one fell swoop, especially in light of the Commission's limited mandate.  As you move through this process, I urge you to adopt a comprehensive regulatory scheme for the management of these machines.  Furthermore, I urge you to lower the number of machines authorized.  I truly appreciate all that you are doing to support and develop a lovely part of Virginia's past and future.  Thank you for your service.