Host Local Government Share of Casino Revenues

Year
2013
Number
B100
Sponsor(s)
Vernon

WHEREAS the British Columbia Lottery Corporation achieved a record net income of 1,107.4 million in 20112012 based in large part on the rapid growth of e-gaming; AND WHEREAS casino and community gaming revenues fell short of target by 41 million in the same period, with the host local government share of casino revenues either stagnant or falling: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM, on behalf of all host local governments, seek to increase the percentage return to host local governments through the minister responsible, as these revenues are one of very few non-property tax sources to directly support local government needs.

Provincial Response

Ministry of Finance Host local governments receive 10 percent of the net casino gaming revenue from casinos and community gaming centres within their jurisdiction. In 201213, these payments totalled 84.5 million across 31 host local governments in British Columbia, an increase of 2.2 million since 201011 and an increase of 1.4 million since 201112. In addition to this funding provided to local governments, non-profit organizations across British Columbia received community gaming grants totaling approximately 135 million in 201213. Profits from eGaming made up only about 1.5 percent of BCLCs total net income in 201213. Further, as overall proceeds from land-based gaming have increased, government has passed the benefits on to citizens through public service priorities, including health care and education.

Convention Decision
Endorsed