Ohio voters appear to be divided on state Issue 2

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

A state ballot issue that seeks to move the location of a planned casino in Columbus is drawing mixed support among Ohioans.

Issue 2 would change the location of the Columbus casino from a downtown neighborhood to a former auto parts factory on the city’s west side.

The casino was among four that Ohio voters approved last November for Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Toledo.

Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman wants the city’s casino project out of downtown because it would clash with the district’s family oriented theme. Proponents, including developer Penn National Gaming Inc., say the simplicity of the ballot issue should make it palatable to voters everywhere.

The issue has no organized opposition, but the Ohio Roundtable, which has traditionally opposed expanded gambling, is encouraging voters to turn down Issue 2 because the group sees it as a special favor to Columbus business interests.

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