Slot machine vote going on ballot in Palm Beach County

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - Palm Beach County voters in November will have the opportunity to decide whether slot machines will come to places like the Palm Beach Kennel Club.

After a half hour of discussion six commissioners voted in favor of the referendum while one voted against it.

A group of pastors showed up at the meeting in opposition of installing slot machines because of the potential crime problems that may come with gambling.

Virginia Brooks said that the machines have bad odds and would only bring gambling addiction to the area.

After six people voiced opposition to the slot machines the Chamber of Commerce came to the podium in support of the issue.

Seven in total came up pleading against bringing slots while two supported it.

Commissioner Bury Aaronson said at the meeting that he supported bringing slot machines to the county.

Commissioner Jess Santamaria said bringing slot machines will only open the door to bringing casinos to the county and is against the referendum.

Two commissioners were on the fence because of their personal feelings but supported putting the item up to the public because they supported the Rooney family who owns the Palm Beach Kennel Club.