Fairfax County officials and residents are strongly opposing efforts to establish a casino resort and convention center in Tysons, Northern Virginia. Local leaders voiced their concerns during a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, with neighboring town representatives and longtime residents expressing unanimous disapproval.

State Sen. David Marsden (D-Fairfax) plans to introduce legislation to amend Virginia's casino law to include Fairfax County as a qualified casino host location. Currently, only Norfolk, Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth, and Petersburg are authorized for casino operations.

Marsden argues that a casino could help offset potential property tax increases caused by declining commercial real estate values. According to Newmark's third quarter report, Northern Virginia experienced negative absorption of 714K square feet, with fewer landlords able to offer concessions and tenant improvements.

While most residents oppose the casino proposal, local unions have voiced support, citing potential job creation opportunities. Union representatives emphasize the benefits of higher wages, pensions, and sustainable employment for blue-collar workers in the affluent area.

Even if Marsden's bill passes and receives Governor Ralph Northam's approval, the casino project would still require voter approval through a local referendum. Given the strong opposition from local officials and residents, the project faces significant hurdles in gaining community support.

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