Since this summer, Dan, I, and all eight members of Henrico’s Virginia General Assembly delegation have repeatedly urged Churchill Downs to reconsider their plans for a gambling facility in Henrico and resubmit them once the county’s new development standards adopte were finalized. Unfortunately, we have yet to receive a response from the company.

Throughout this period I have heard from numerous constituents who are deeply concerned about the proposal, particularly regarding Colonial Downs' bypassing of the public input process. I am extremely disappointed in Colonial Downs Group and Rosie’s Gaming Emporium lack of engagement, and seeming indifference, to the concerns of our community. It is deeply problematic when you have every local and state elected official in Henrico calling for transparency, public input, and a fair process, yet the company refuses to engage. It suggests they do not care about this community and that they are not being good faith partners. Our constituents in Henrico deserve answers and deserve better.

I hope you are able to join Dan and me on December 5th to learn more about this project and hear from you directly about your concerns. In the meantime, I wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.

Yours in service,