As conversations in North Carolina around legalized gambling expansion continue, leaders of Rockingham County’s Camp Carefree have pushed back against gaining a casino in their area, according to a local CBS 17 news report.
Camp Carefree is a camp for children with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Its leaders raised concerns regarding a possible casino soon after learning that NC Development Holdings recently requested that 192 acres be rezoned for possible casino development.
NC Development Holdings has not disclosed its intentions for the property. However, the holding company is registered at the same address as The Cordish Cos, a casino developer based in Baltimore, Maryland.
Camp Carefree Summer Program Director Ryan Joyce shared his thoughts with local CBS 17 regarding a potential nearby casino and pointed out some drawbacks for such development.
Joyce said, “We just don’t want a development like this to impact our summer program and take away from these kids who already don’t have a lot.
“This is not something that’s going to be beneficial for the community.”
State lawmakers and lobbyists have brought up increased casino activity across state borders as a compelling reason to allow for casino construction in North Carolina. A similar position moved legislated to legalize sports betting last year.
Part of the motivation to open a regulated sports betting market was due to pre-existing gambling throughout the state, as well as the opportunity to provide a safe space for an already present market.
Senate leader Phil Berger outlined this position further when commenting to local news. He said, “It’s something that can create a fairly substantial additional revenue stream. That revenue stream right now is headed north into Virginia.”
