Montgomery County wants share of casino cash
A trio of Pennsylvania Representatives say too much of the take from the Valley Forge Casino is heading to Harrisburg and not enough is staying in Montgomery County.
The county portion of casino revenues for the Valley Forge Casino goes to a state agency due to a diversion set up in Pennsylvania’s casino law. This isn’t the case for casinos in Philadelphia, Bensalem or Chester.
State Rep. Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery County) says her bill would re-direct $1 million to $3 million a year to Montgomery County parks and two non-profits.
“Right now the money would go into the Commonwealth Financing Authority and the state would make the determination where the money goes,” said Toepel. “My bill would keep the money back into the county to fund county programs.”
Montgomery County Commissioner Josh Shapiro says the funding is urgently needed.
“Parks and trails is something millions and millions of visitors enjoy in Montgomery County each year,” said Shapiro. “In addition a percentage of the revenue is going to Mission Kids, an agency designed to combat child abuse and neglect. “
A portion of the money would be given to Laurel House, which helps domestic violence victims and their children.
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