Belmont, and the other tracks, couldn't survive when we started a 10% tax on gambling winnings. Their business evaporated in a matter of weeks. That tax also took a big chunk out of lottery ticket sales. Fortunately, the legislature changed hands and the tax repeal was rushed through, but it was too late and Belmont never recovered. Recall, dog racing was also banned. Belmont had some telephone betting, I believe, which helped cover overhead. That went away with the tax. Population centers need to be larger to support large table game and slot venues, large hotel/entertainment centers can carry some of that load.
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