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Resident urges Arlington Heights to study crime, economic and health impacts of video gambling
Summary
A resident asked the Village Board to commission local studies on the economic, crime and health impacts of legalizing video gambling terminals, citing an $11,000,000 annual loss figure and academic research linking VGT access to higher crime rates.
At the Village of Arlington Heights meeting on Feb. 2, resident Henry Beardsley urged trustees to commission studies on the local impacts of legalizing video gambling terminals (VGTs).
Beardsley recounted earlier requests he’d made to the board and said he expects an $11,000,000-per-year economic loss if VGTs are introduced. He asked the board to study anticipated increases in crime, possible public-health effects and economic impacts specific to towns near Arlington Heights before allowing VGTs in bars and restaurants.
Beardsley cited a 2017 University of Illinois study that, he said, found increased access to video gambling was associated with higher violent and property crime and persistent effects over time. He called for a local study to inform the board’s decision.
Another public commenter, Keith Moons, criticized the meeting agenda for lacking new business items and suggested trustees could bring motions addressing housing, pedestrian safety and other local concerns.
Trustees did not take action on VGTs at the meeting; Beardsley’s request was entered into the public record for future consideration.
