GLOUCESTER COUNTY, Va. — Hampton would be a hot spot for casino gaming, according to a study done by a consulting firm, but a lot still needs to happen.
In the meantime, city leaders are asking for support from neighboring cities and counties.
A Hampton city spokesperson said a casino located in Hampton would benefit the Peninsula in terms of jobs and tourism.
City leaders have pledged to share a portion of the gaming tax revenue to other localities to accomplish what they call regional goals, but they're requesting support from those areas.
One of those requests for letters of support went to Gloucester County.
“It'll impact the entire region so they're including us to be a participant in this effort as well,” Gloucester County Board of Supervisors Chair Phillip Bazzani said. “It's revenue coming into the county for school, county projects and it’s free money.”
Bazzani said this is an opportunity to demonstrate a regional approach to economic development. That’s why he's ready to support Hampton’s efforts to bring in a casino gaming development.
“Right now, the state isn't funding certain things so when you can have a casino that would provide revenue to different localities it's a great boost for the economy,” Bazzani said.
Newport News Mayor McKinley Price sent letters of support to state representatives last week.
The county administrator for James City County received a request from the Hampton city manager. Right now, he is considering whether the county should respond.
A York County spokesperson said it's not on any of their upcoming agendas.
The Gloucester County Board of Supervisors will vote Tuesday night whether to send a letter of support to Virginia legislators.
You can read the letter here.