Community Pushback Against Proposed Casino Resort in Irving
Last Friday’s Town Hall meeting in Irving showcased a significant backlash from over 500 residents against the proposed massive casino resort from Las Vegas Sands Corp. A critical upcoming vote by the Irving City Council will determine whether the land previously occupied by Texas Stadium will be rezoned to accommodate the casino resort, bringing it dangerously close to where local children live and attend school.
During the meeting, Sands’ spokesperson was visibly overwhelmed as he faced relentless inquiries from attendees about the development. At one point, he requested water, but no one fulfilled his request until Rev. John Bayer, a monk from a nearby monastery who opposes the casino, took it upon himself to offer a glass. This simple act highlighted the human compassion that stands in stark contrast to the corporation’s ambitions for Irving.
We urge the Irving City Council to acknowledge the fundamental needs of the community it serves. There is a profound fear that a casino will bring social issues without delivering on its promised economic benefits. Residents of Irving deserve development that focuses on community well-being—promoting safety, good jobs, family-friendly activities, and excellent education at institutions such as the nationally recognized University of Dallas, located near the proposed casino site.
Studies have shown that casinos contribute to significant increases in crime rates. Research indicated that casinos accounted for 8.6% of property crime and 12.5% of violent crime in the counties where they operate, demonstrating that these issues extend beyond casino borders and present a direct threat to our families. The rising crime is often linked to gambling addictions that lead individuals to engage in criminal behavior out of financial desperation.
The March 14 town hall revealed the Sands spokesperson’s claims about the economic activity and job creation resulting from the casino are misleading. Research suggests that any job benefits from casinos are primarily found in less populated areas, and populous regions like Dallas-Fort Worth are unlikely to experience similar gains. To assert that no economic development would take place without the casino is not only misleading but also ignores the region’s growth potential.
Additionally, while there may be some increase in property tax revenue from a casino, any forecasted benefits from Sands are likely grossly exaggerated. Governments that anticipate steady income from casinos have often been let down, as history indicates that they fall short of their financial expectations. Given that casino gambling remains illegal in Texas, the zoning commission should not endorse any plans that contradict this established stance.
We wholeheartedly support economic progress in Irving and the broader Dallas-Fort Worth area. Our community is thriving and welcoming to businesses that align with our core values—those that enhance public safety and well-being. When Rev. Bayer stated he was not on Sands’ side despite offering water, it illustrated that individuals in Irving value mutual respect, unlike the corporates, who seem detached from the community’s needs. Our entitlements to security, prosperity, and well-being must not be compromised for the interests of others.
