The Ontario Liberal critic for Tourism, Culture, and Sport has joined the call in questioning why Gateway Casinos Sarnia is closing next year.
Ajax MPP Rob Cerjanec issued a media release on Thursday, asking for the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, MPP Stan Cho, to release the business case supporting the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) decision to close the slots at Hiawatha Horse Park.
The decision was announced in September, with plans to close the casino by March 31, 2026, as the Optional Slots at Racetracks Program winds down. As previously reported, the program launched in 2019 as a temporary measure to assist eligible racetracks.
“To close the casino just six years later and not consider an extension of the agreement is unreasonable and a disservice to the community," said Cerjanec in a letter to Cho. "I urge the Government of Ontario and OLG to share the business case for this closure and to work collaboratively with the City of Sarnia to ensure that the community’s economic stability and long-term interests are fully considered.”
Cerjanec also said residents and the approximately 50 casino workers who will be impacted by the closure "deserve answers from the provincial government.”
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley previously told Sarnia News Today that the closure would also result in a loss of gaming revenue, as the city receives roughly $100,000 per quarter. However, the OLG said it will provide the city with one additional year of funding to help with the transition.
-With files from Melanie Irwin
