Gov. Bill Richardson (Photo by Heath Haussamen)
A proposal to build a multi-million dollar casino in the middle of Albuquerque has come up quickly and quietly, and it’s drawing some criticism from the area’s state senator and a neighborhood association.
“I had no idea about building a huge new casino on the corner of Louisiana and Central,” said state Sen. Tim Keller, D-Albuquerque, was quoted by the Albuquerque Journal as saying.
The proposal, from Downs at Albuquerque president – and friend of the governor – Paul Blanchard would “extend the racino’s lease at Expo New Mexico for up to 40 years,” the Journal reported.
The proposal apparently will go before the State Fair Commission on Wednesday. The board’s seven members were appointed by Gov. Bill Richardson. As the Journal pointed out, “Blanchard is a major political ally and financial supporter of the governor.”
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