Phil Ammann
This month, pari-mutuel provider bestbet has been recognized by the state of Florida as a top private employer in Duval County, creating hundreds of jobs countywide between its Jacksonville and Orange Park facilities.
A licensed pari-mutuel offering poker, simulcast and racing entertainment options, bestbet operates locations in both Duval and Clay counties.
In a letter to bestbet CEO Jamie Shelton, Gov. Rick Scott commended the company for its inclusion in the Jacksonville Business Journal’s list of top private employers.
Shelton and the bestbet team has been long recognized in the region for its commitment to maintaining safe, clean and well-managed facilities, and has led the way on a ballot referendum in Duval County to allow the Jacksonville facility to add slot machines. The referendum is expected to be part of the November 8 ballot.
A recent economic impact study prepared for officials in Duval County estimated that such a move would “support approximately 2,800 jobs countywide, producing labor income of $123 million and total economic activity of over $494 million.”
By looking at tax revenue estimates, the study found Duval County could see a direct impact from revenue sharing of over $5 million, with the state collecting more than $128 million in gaming taxes on a regular basis.
3 comments
michael
September 27, 2016 at 1:38 pm
This is just great. The Gov who allows companies to ruin our water ways now praises a company that has been paying illegal table games on their property. This Gov couldn’t commit to the Seminoles on gaming and fouled that up now it’s in Federal court. Praise from a weak Gov to a facility which is committing a crime is not something that should be in print..
Antonio
September 28, 2016 at 9:50 am
Not to mention they serve alcohol to patrons past 2am and allow their dealers to be physically abused by players
Tony H.
September 29, 2016 at 4:55 pm
Where do they think that $5 million in revenue actually comes from?…just another form of a municipal tax with very little ROI for its constituency. Jobs? 2800 jobs? They probably don’t even have 1000 right now. Are they counting patrons too?!? Totally made up number for looks….unless they get a hotel/casino and can bloat the numbers via housekeeping.
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