The board of directors of the Scarborough Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) began meeting immediately upon becoming aware of the proposed racino/town center concept called Scarborough Village at Scarborough Downs. Following the Aug. 7 presentation made to the Town Council, the SEDCO board initially discussed this proposal at meetings of our Public Policy Committee, then at our Executive Committee, and finally at our full board meeting on Aug. 20.

At our board meeting, the SEDCO board of directors unanimously voted not to recommend or endorse the Scarborough Village at Scarborough Downs proposal. The SEDCO Board reiterated our position from 2002-2003 when the Town Council enacted an ordinance banning video gaming and the community voted likewise.

The scope and scale of this development raises numerous concerns for our board including what would be the impact on efforts to attract corporate office and high-tech firms throughout Scarborough and what would be the real impacts on the workforce, traffic, and town services if a development of this type, scope and size was brought to fruition.

While the proposal suggests that the town may be offered a number of enticing benefits, e.g. community and/or senior centers, library, school, town center, etc… We strongly believe that the proposal as presented is still a racino-centric model, which is not part of our long-term economic development strategy for Scarborough.

While the SEDCO Board supports the mixed-use village concept, as envisioned throughout the town of Scarborough by the Updated Comprehensive Plan, a racino is not mentioned anywhere in that document. Our Board does not support a racino in Scarborough as good economic development. Nevertheless, the SEDCO staff and board will continue to research and assess the economic development related issues surrounding this proposal and serve as a resource to the Town Council and the community.

In conclusion, the SEDCO board unanimously opposes the Scarborough Village at Scarborough Downs proposal.

Roger Beeley

Chairman of SEDCO board of directors