2024: Looking at the year ahead.
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The SEA Board is looking for new members. If you are interested in taking time to advocate for the important issues that define Southeast Evanston, please consider reaching out to us at info@southeastevanston.org, for more information.
SEA Board Letter to the Editor: Gambling in Evanston
EVANSTON ROUNDTABLE - April 8th, 2024
Council Members of the Evanston Human Services Committee,
As board members of the Southeast Evanston Association (SEA), we are writing to convey our deep concerns regarding the proposal to introduce video gaming machines into our community.
The proliferation of video gaming, often in less visible sections of public venues such as restaurants and bars, presents a regulatory challenge that can lead to unchecked gambling practices.
Overwhelming evidence from numerous academic studies on this issue compel us to highlight the potential for severe financial and emotional harm stemming from compulsive engagement with these machines. The addictive nature of video gaming can ensnare individuals in a cycle of dependency with far-reaching consequences. Particularly to the most vulnerable Evanstonians, including children.
The presence of video gaming machines in establishments frequented by families poses a notable risk to young individuals. Despite legal restrictions on age, the accessibility of these machines in establishments that permit minors increases the likelihood of exposure to gambling activities among children.
The prospect of generating revenue through video gaming is weighed against the moral and social costs. We contend that the potential negative impacts on our community’s fabric and values far surpass any short-term fiscal advantages. The reliance on gambling-derived income is a precarious foundation for community development, fraught with ethical concerns and the potential for long-term harm.
In light of these considerations, the SEA Board strongly urges the Evanston Human Services Committee to VOTE NO on the forthcoming video gaming measure.
Respectfully,
The Southeast Evanston Association Board
SEA:
A neighborhood organization dedicated to a better Evanston
The Southeast Evanston Association (SEA) acts as the eyes and ears of our neighborhood by protecting, preserving and defending the quality of life in southeast Evanston and our entire community.
We actively participate in political and economic activities in the city that might affect our shared lakefront, our thriving downtown and our beautiful neighborhoods. If it’s good for the people of Evanston, there’s a good chance that SEA is interested, informed and involved.
For over 50 years, SEA has played an integral role in our community by creating coalitions, engaging elected officials and attending council meetings to speak on behalf of SEA members and the citizens of our city.
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