Fair commission puts off vote on lease

All bets are off on the new deal for the casino at the state fairgrounds. The state fair commission surprised everyone Wednesday by putting off a decision on what was believed to be a done deal for the Downs at Albuquerque. Some of the commissioners felt the scheduled vote, like the rest of the process was rushed by Expo New Mexico officials. “We’ve just been given a lease that we’re supposed to look at over the weekend and approve today? I’m sorry Mr. Chairman I just can’t do that,” said Commissioner Benny Roybal. Lack of time and lack of discussion, some state fair commissioners said that’s what led to their decision to postpone the vote on a new lease and casino at the state fair grounds. “25 years is a very long time the impact this will have on our communities is forever in something like this you don’t want to rush through,” Commissioner Charlotte Rode said. The proposal before the commission is from the Downs at Albuquerque, the company that currently runs the racino at the State Fair Grounds. It includes a 25 year lease and a promise to build a brand new multi-million dollar casino and bring more jobs...more