Ministerial alliance opposes state Issue 6

YOUNGSTOWN — Issue 6 won’t create jobs in the Mahoning Valley, said local religious leaders today.

Voting for Issue 6 would amend the Ohio Constitution to authorize the construction of a privately owned $600 million casino complex between Columbus and Cincinnati in Clinton County.

Supporters of Issue 6 say the casino would generate about 5,000 jobs with an average salary of $34,000 — members of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance believe otherwise.

“We don’t believe the jobs they speak of will help Youngstown,” said the Rev. Lewis Macklin of Holy Trinity Baptist Church during a press conference at the Youngstown Club.

The Rev. Mr. Macklin joined others against Issue 6 to acknowledge that the casino is not in the best interest of the area.

“When you come to Issue 6 on the ballot, do the right thing,” said Mr. Macklin.

“Make it a strong resounding no.”

Read more in Friday’s Vindicator and vindy.com.