New Kent County fights to retain gaming revenue amid legislative changes

The New Kent County Planning Commission meeting on December 16, 2024, focused on ongoing discussions regarding funding from gaming revenues, particularly from Colonial Downs. Officials expressed concerns about the future of these funds and the potential changes in the funding formula as the General Assembly prepares for its upcoming session.

During the meeting, it was noted that there have been ongoing conversations from the governor's office about the distribution of gaming revenue. New Kent County currently benefits from a half percent of all gaming revenue generated at local facilities, including Rosie's. However, there is growing pressure from other localities that argue they should retain the revenue generated within their borders. This has led to a debate about fairness and the role of New Kent as a host community for these gaming operations.

Officials acknowledged that while New Kent is the only locality benefiting from the current legislation, they anticipate changes. The discussions indicate that the General Assembly may introduce new legislation that could alter the funding structure. Notably, there is a push for the formation of a Gaming Commission, which could influence how funds are distributed in the future.

The meeting highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the fiscal implications of these changes, particularly with the General Assembly typically adjourning in February and potential new laws taking effect by July 1. Officials are advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure that New Kent's interests are represented in any forthcoming discussions.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue between local officials and state representatives as New Kent County navigates the complexities of gaming revenue distribution and prepares for potential legislative changes in the coming year.