As a proud resident of Pueblo County, I believe we are standing at the threshold of a major opportunity—one that could redefine our local economy, improve public services, and create a better quality of life for every family in our community. That opportunity is the legalization of casino gambling in Pueblo County under Colorado’s Limited Gaming Act.

Currently, legal casino gambling is confined to specific mountain towns like Cripple Creek (Teller County) and Black Hawk and Central City (Gilpin County). Together, these counties generated over $800 million in gaming revenue in 2023 alone. These funds have been reinvested into local municipalities, community colleges, and historical preservation projects—demonstrating how powerful this revenue stream can be when managed responsibly.

Across the country, cities like Biloxi, Mississippi, Atlantic City, and Las Vegas have seen billions in annual gambling revenue—revenue that has helped transform their local economies, improve infrastructure, increase law enforcement presence, and create thousands of jobs. Pueblo is perfectly positioned to follow in these footsteps and perhaps even lead the way for the next generation of gaming destinations.

What sets Pueblo apart is our ideal geography and growth potential. We sit at the crossroads of Interstate 25 and U.S. Highway 50, two major transportation routes that bring in steady traffic. We also have a regional airport with a master plan for expansion—an effort that could become a reality with the additional tax dollars generated by casino development. This would make Pueblo more accessible to tourists and business travelers alike.

Moreover, we have ample, undeveloped land along the southeastern I-25 corridor, offering a blank slate for modern, large-scale casino resorts—something that cities like Cripple Creek simply can’t accommodate due to strict building codes requiring “historic-looking architecture.” We can build without constraints and, most importantly, without disturbing our city’s historic identity. Our downtown, Riverwalk, and cultural landmarks can remain untouched and preserved, even as the rest of the city experiences a renaissance of economic growth.

But beyond the numbers, this issue matters to me personally. I love this community. I want my child to grow up in a city with well-funded schools, safe parks, and opportunities for everyone—not a place where potential is wasted and funding is always stretched thin. I’ve seen how much we struggle to maintain our community assets, from our beloved zoo and parks to public safety services and mental health programs. Legalized gambling could provide us with the sustainable funding source we need to finally break that cycle.

I also recognize that no opportunity comes without responsibility. That’s why I believe a portion of gambling tax revenue should be dedicated to mental health services, helping individuals and families who may struggle with gambling addiction or the consequences it can bring. With the right framework, we can ensure that this industry uplifts our community instead of hurting it.

Legalizing gambling in Pueblo County is not just about building casinos—it’s about building a future with more jobs, better infrastructure, and stronger public services. It’s about reclaiming local dollars that are currently being spent in other gaming towns and bringing them home where they belong.

If you believe Pueblo deserves a shot at something greater, I urge you to sign this petition. Let’s send a message to our local and state leaders that Pueblo is ready for growth, ready for investment, and ready to lead.