The supporters at that hearing stated there is no option but to allow casinos as a way to provide employment and save our economy.
I am asking are there any authoritative, objective studies done that says indeed casinos will work on Saipan?
Who are these people that will be playing in the casinos? What does MVA say? Are there any documents or studies that show that casinos will bring more tourists to our islands?
Or, are we banking on the locals just like what is happening with the poker establishments? I recall that the poker industry was set out as a means of attracting tourists to our island. The question is does it? We all know of someone in our community whose life is essentially ruined by addiction to poker.
I feel there is an alternative. First we must vote wisely. Elect people that will work for the well being of the community. We, the voters must think big and for the betterment of the community instead of what is in it for me.
Second, we have beautiful beaches and golf courses. The island of Managaha is one of the most attractive places to visit even for us locals. We need to make it easier and less costly for all to enjoy these. Right now, we have two separate charges for locals and tourists with the latter paying as much as 3 and 4 times more. Why not make it all the same so that it is affordable to our tourists?
Third, we need to keep our islands inviting. Each of us can make this happen by doing our part such as not littering, being courteous and offering a helping hand.
Forth and perhaps the true test of our character is that government expenditures need to be reduced so that more of our limited resources can go into maintaining, improving and expanding our infrastructures. Look at Garapan, the main tourist area. Are we proud of it?
We have a blue print or map to look at in deciding whether casinos are the solution. Look with an objective eye at the poker industry. Are we happy? Who are the players in these poker establishments? Tourists or locals. If casino is indeed a good thing why is the one in Tinian having a difficult time? How many locals have disposable income and that would play in the casinos? Are we going to have 50,000 or 200,000 tourists more a year coming to Saipan because of the casinos?
This issue was voted down at least twice. The argument now however is that the economy is so bad we have no choice. Despite our experience with the poker we are going ahead with casinos knowing that it will not better our community? Employment for the locals? How? Are they to be granted tax exempt status for 25 years? Where then is the additional revenue that it is supposed to bring in?
We must continue to develop our tourism market as it is our main economic driver. It is the industry that propelled us in the past and it is the only industry still with us. We need to continue with it and it is the option we should work for. We can certainly work harder marketing our islands. We have fruits that are in season at certain time of the year such as mango and water mellow. Can’t we tie all these to the blossoming of the flame trees for a festival much like the cherry blossom in Japan?
I am not against casinos. However, is it appropriate for our islands? Are the poker establishments good for the islands? The community in Kagman and other places wants the poker establishments out of their area. How many families are off island as they try desperately to break the addictions and keep the family intact?
EFRAIN F. CAMACHO
Navy Hill, Saipan
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