Irey offered eloquent testimony
Washington County and the entire region should be extremely proud of Commissioner Diana Irey and other community leaders who had the courage to stand up and protect the interests of their constituents. I am speaking specifically of testimony offered at the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board’s public hearing for the proposed racetrack and casino in Lawrence County.
Commissioner Irey was one of the area’s representatives who delivered meaningful testimony on why the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board should not allow another casino to be located in Western Pennsylvania, given the increased market saturation. Under a hostile environment filled with boos and jeers, Irey calmly and eloquently outlined the many tax and community benefits that would be at risk for the Washington County area if such a casino was approved. Talk about true courage and leadership.
I would like to commend her and state Sen. Tim Solobay, J.R. Shaw of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Peg Wilson of the Washington County Food Bank for their participation and public testimony. We are blessed to be represented by so many loyal and dedicated individuals throughout our community.
Sean Sullivan
North Strabane Township
Sullivan is the vice president and general manager of the The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.