The Maine Harness Horsemen’s Association is an organization with more than 750 breeders, owners, trainers, drivers and grooms of the more than 2,500 standardbred horses in the state. As its executive director, I urge Maine citizens to vote yes on Question 2.

Question 2 will allow for two fully integrated racinos, one in Biddeford and one in Washington County.

Harness racing has a long and wonderful history in Maine, preserves open farmland and contributes millions back into the economy, supporting Mainers who are directly and indirectly involved in the industry.

Vendors who are related to racing, such as grain dealers and hay suppliers, contribute and depend on our industry to survive. Failure to pass Question 2 on Election Day will jeopardize more than 2,000 jobs. Some people will be forced to move to states such as Delaware, New York and Pennsylvania, where they have racinos.

Harness racing pays subsidies to improve all 26 agricultural fairs in Maine, both those that have racing and those that do not.

We are thrilled that Ocean Properties is teaming up with Scarborough Downs to build a first-class resort destination and racino in Biddeford. The Biddeford Downs project will bring hundreds of good paying jobs.

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The Passamaquoddy tribe in Washington County proposes to build a beautiful new racino that will be closer to the new million-dollar border crossing. This facility will bring a much-needed economic boost to that part of Maine.

Along with generating revenue for harness racing and the fairs, these projects will provide millions of dollars to the general fund, scholarships for Maine’s universities and community colleges, and public safety.

The vote on Nov. 8 is about preserving and creating jobs. Please vote yes.

Wendy Ireland

Executive director

Maine Harness Horsemen’s Association

Augusta


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