There's still hope that Gateway Casinos Sarnia, located at Hiawatha Horse Park, can continue operating past next March.
Right now, it's tentatively scheduled to close as of March 31, 2026, coinciding with the end of Ontario's Slots at Racetracks Program.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has sent a letter to Sarnia city officials, indicating it's working to extend the program.
An official announcement has not been made just yet.
The OLG said it will be speaking with Gateway, regarding an extension to their gaming operating agreement, as well as with Hiawatha Horse Park Owner Jim Henderson.
The City of Sarnia will continue to receive payments under the Municipality Contribution Agreement for as long as the casino remains in operation.
Mayor Mike Bradley is cautiously optimistic about the development.
"It's a positive step. They originally said there would be no debate. Now, they're looking at the numbers, they're looking at the situation here," said Bradley. "Why a government would want to put people out of work, at a place that is making money, is beyond me. That's all I asked the premier, show us the books and show us the business case to close this place. It's obvious that's had an impact. I've also been working with the opposition critic on this file, and he's raised the question at the committee level."
Bradley said any extension to the Slots at Racetracks Program would be beneficial.
"Even if it's six months or a year, it would give employment to people [who] are presently there," he said. "It would also send a clear message that Sarnia-Lambton is being listened to."
The slots were originally taken away from Hiawatha Horse Park in 2012, and returned in late 2018.
There are about 150 slot machines currently housed at the London Line site.
There are 48 full time employees at Hiawatha, and up to 100 part time workers.
An estimated 500 horsemen use the tracks throughout the season.
