Possible casino to hit the capital, but where?

Ottawa councillors voted Tuesday at City Hall on whether or not to allow a new casino in Ottawa.

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation Chair, Paul Godfrey, has made it clear his preference is for a downtown location.

Jim Watson, Ottawa Mayor, said all options are open, including the Rideau Carleton Raceway in Gloucester.

But Ottawa can only have one casino. That means either the Rideau Carleton Raceway closes or expands.

"The Rideau Carleton Raceway should be one of the bidders…and should be accepted on a level playing field,” said Watson

Even though the Mayor said he prefers a downtown casino, he said Rideau Carleton may be too far of a drive. He wants to directly compete with Lac Leamy in Gatineau which is six kilometers from downtown Ottawa.

Other sites rumoured to be in the running are Scotiabank Place and Lebreton Flats.

"I think the Mayor has set up an outrageous process to give a million people two weeks to consult on an institution like a casino,” said Liam Mooney.

Mooney is part of a team who are plastering posters downtown trying to make residents aware of the casino plans. He said it should go to a referendum.

With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Catherine Lathem.