“The last time you were in Cleveland, you probably didn’t think of associating it as a big tourist attraction. The truth is, the Cleveland Flats were once alive at night, packed with places to go and things to do. With the recent passing of Issue 3, it may be that way yet again.”
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The last time you were in Cleveland, you probably didn’t think of associating it as a big tourist attraction.

The truth is, the Cleveland Flats were once alive at night, packed with places to go and things to do.

With the recent passing of Issue 3, it may be that way yet again.

Dan Gilbert, most famously known for owning the majority of the Cleveland Cavaliers, plans to begin construction of a $600 million casino across from the Quicken Loans Arena.

This will be one of at least four casinos being welcomed into the Buckeye State for the first time in history, all in the hopes that it will bring back tourism and create thousands of new jobs.

We’re going to deliver something very special, said Gilbert, shortly after the Cavs’ victory over Washington.

And he’s not the only one with this belief.

The issue resulted in 53-47 percent with the majority going all in for casinos, and any good gambler knows the majority wins.

Issue 3 may have been the most controversial issue on the ballot and while pro gamblers are counting their winnings, it’s hard to predict if any good will truly come from it.

Mayor Frank Jackson, while celebrating his re-election, said it’s one more tool we can use to further the goals and vision of Cleveland.

But for the last two decades voters have shut out four gambling proposals.

Let’s also remember the other 47 percent of voters this year who disagree with Mayor Jackson.

Yes, it’s true that new casinos will more than likely bring in a large revenue, but you can’t rule out the possibility that the loss may outweigh the profit, and gamblers especially don’t like those odds.

In a hypothetical scenario, let’s say you decide to go hit the slots over the weekend.

You may end up doing just that, but your hunger for winning may stir up an appetite in your stomach too.

Lucky for you, there’s a buffet at the casino.

And not only that, it’s cheaper than any bar & grill in town.

Casinos are making their biggest profits off gambling after all, so naturally you’ll find food and drink specials.

You can also bet that they’ll do anything they can to keep you there, and that’s just the sort of thing that local business owners are worried about.

How am I going to sell $14.95 steaks when they’re giving them away for $9? Tony George, owner of the Harry Buffalo in downtown Cleveland and president of the Licensed Business Owners of Ohio said.

Taking away from the local competition is just part of it when you factor in some of the other hiccups like gambling addictions and increased crime.

If you don’t believe it, you can see for yourself.

Just check the records of other gambling states.

It’s quite possible that Ohio may reel in major profits from casinos, but Gilbert may be holding the winning hand.

Owning two of the four casinos to be built, he’s playing high stakes Monopoly.

Whether or not you agree with Issue 3, the bottom line is you have to play with the cards you were dealt.

With any luck, Ohio can cash in their profits.

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