The proposed casino expansion creates a net loss for our city, introducing risks of addiction and increased crime. Save Fort Wayne has formed a coalition of the willing that bridges political and demographic divides. We invite you to join us in defending our community's financial health and safety.

A study by Earl Grinols from Baylor University found that gambling creates $3 in social costs for every $1 it generates. This conclusion highlights the negative economic impact of gambling, indicating that the costs outweigh the benefits.

(Grinols, p.19 -29 https://ifl.web.baylor.edu/sites/g/files/ecbvkj771/files/2022-11/Gambling.pdf)

A conventional tax implies social costs per extra dollar collected of $1.17-$1.59. Taxes on gambling revenues conservatively cost $2.28 per dollar of tax collected if the tax rate is 30%. (https://freedomfoundationofminnesota.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Gambling-Economics-Summary-Facts-by-Professor-Earl-Grinols-4.29.11.pdf

Contrary to assertions often made by proponents of the gambling industry that the social costs of gambling cannot be identified and measured, it is possible to do both. The social costs of gambling are “hidden” only to the extent that they are misunderstood or overlooked. However, a framework grounded on the well-being and utility of members of society is available that produces an exhaustive and mutually exclusive listing of consequences. Working just from the list of social costs that have been empirically studied, one additional pathological gambler costs society $13,203 annually (adjusted for 2025).

(https://ifl.web.baylor.edu/sites/g/files/ecbvkj771/files/2022-11/Gambling.pdf, p.24)

The primary economic argument for the Fort Wayne casino is that it will generate "new" money. This assumes it functions as a tourist destination. Fort Wayne is not Las Vegas. In markets lacking high-density attractions, casinos operate as "convenience gambling" venues, leading to the Substitution Effect. Locals become the support for the casinos, shifting wealth from within. 20-30% of profits from casino go to external investors. (https://savefw.com/#economic-analysis)

"Gambling is no different than the stock market."

This is false. A financial investment differs from gambling in three important ways: the investor’s knowledge is relevant to the outcome, an asset is purchased, and both parties plan to benefit from the transaction.

In gambling, there is ONLY chance, no knowledge necessary. In gambling, there is no asset inherently attained. In gambling, only one party consistently benefits: the House always wins.

Want a chance to get wealth? Study economics, invest based on your knowledge, and own part of an asset. Save the game of chance for ordering gas station sushi.

(https://ifl.web.baylor.edu/.../files/2022-11/Gambling.pdf p. 37-42)