Delta has a very different view from Richmond when it comes to crime that could result from Gateway’s proposed casino/hotel in Ladner.

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City of Richmond staff list a series of concerns including a potential increase in overall crime and the movement of currency in and out of the facility.

When it comes to street level crime, a letter to Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie from Delta Mayor Lois Jackson notes, “Correlating the presence of a casino in Delta to crime rates in Richmond would be similar to Delta attributing crime in South Delta to attractors in Richmond such as McArthurGlen Mall which is currently expanding, Ironwood Shopping Centre or the Cineplex Movie Theatre. This is not an equal comparison whatsoever.”

Jackson also noted Delta police do not expect the proposed casino to be a significant impact on police resources in Delta or any other municipality

A report by the B.C. Lottery Corporation notes most casinos in the province manage their problems effectively within the confines of the establishment, so there is no reason to believe the proposed Delta facility would not operate in a similar fashion.

“Based on the review and discussion, Richmond RCMP is of the opinion that an additional gaming facility, with the movement of currency in and out of the casino, may potentially lead to an increase in overall crime. Crimes such as impaired driving and robbery may increase due to a spillover effect on Richmond, which may generate a need for additional police resources in Richmond. Additional money laundering may also increase; however, both of these issues are handled at a regional level through the integrated policing teams, resulting in a minimal impact to policing in Richmond.”

Gateway CAO Jag Nijjar told a Delta multi-civic committee session that his company has “zero tolerance for any criminal activity” and that the Delta casino would have over 120 security and surveillance staff as well as hundreds of cameras. He also explained the measures in place to make sure criminals don’t try to use the casino and that further measures are coming following a review by the province.

Delta Police Chief Neil Dubord noted he doesn’t have concern about an increase in crime and, as far as money laundering, the RCMP’s integrated illicit gambling team has a good handle when it comes to organized crime trying to launder money. He said the biggest concern from a Delta police standpoint will be “traffic, traffic, traffic.”

Described as a “modest-sized” casino, the proposed gaming facility at the Delta Town & Country Inn would be much smaller than Richmond’s lucrative River Rock Casino. The Delta casino would start off with 500 slots as well as 24 gaming tables and up to six e-tables. After six months a review will take place and any substantial change would require the city’s approval.

A public hearing will take place May 1 at the Ladner Community Centre.