Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
Local racino pitch to be made Oct. 4 at convention center
An artist's rendering shows the grandstand of a horse-racing track and casino proposed for Tucumcari by Coronado Partners. The group will make its pitch to the New Mexico Racing Commission Oct. 4 at the Tucumcari Convention Center.
Just show up.
That's the single biggest piece of advice to Quay County residents from the frontman of an investment group that will make its pitch for a Tucumcari horse-racing track at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Tucumcari Convention Center at 1500 W. Route 66.
Coronado Partners, led by Logan attorney Warren Frost, wants to build an $80 million track and casino sandwiched between Interstate 40 and Route 66 on Tucumcari's east side. But to build the facility, the New Mexico Racing Commission must award its last remaining license.
Commission members also will hold hearings with investment groups in Lordsburg on Sept. 28 and Clovis on Oct. 5 that also seek the license. Dates, times and locations for the hearings were announced last week.
The racing commission can take comments about the proposal at its website at http://nmrc.state.nm.us/contact-us.aspx. But Frost said that's no substitute for large crowds at the hearing.
"Being there is very important," he said. "We're encouraging people to close their businesses for the afternoon so they can attend. I'm closing mine in Logan so my employees can attend. I understand not everyone can do that, but to the extent they can, that would be great."
Frost also urged residents to show up for the hearing ahead of time to assure seating. He said applause during the hearing will not be discouraged, nor will dissension.
"My recommendation is to come and be enthusiastic," he said.
Frost said Coronado Partners will make a 90-minute presentation to the commission, which then will allow public comments. He said those attending who wish to speak must sign up there for public comments beforehand.
"Anybody who wants to comment, one way or another, they will have the ability to do that," Frost said. "I don't think they'll let anyone speak too long. Maybe a couple, three minutes."
In addition to the racetrack, the proposed Tucumcari facility will include 600 slot machines, restaurants, a lounge and more — with the promise to create hundreds of jobs and boost the coffers of local governments.
The Tucumcari Convention Center will host a pre-hearing informational meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.
