Calder Casino Slot Revenue Comes Out Of Gates Slowly In Florida

The Calder Casino & Race Course has little doubt that it can compete with other pari-mutuel facilities in South Florida when it comes to slot revenue. That competition, however, may take a little longer than expected.

After the first month of operating slots at the casino, Calder ranks fourth out of five pari-mutuels in total slot pay. The average daily revenue for the slots was also fourth among this group of gambling facilities.

According to Calder President and general manager Tom O'Donnell, Calder has an uphill battle when it comes to other pari-mutuels in the area. O'Donnell understands these challenges, and feels that Calder will still be able to compete.

"Our primary competitors are Mardi Gras, Gulfstream, and Flagler," said O'Donnell, "We do not consider Hard Rock a competitor. They pay revenues at a much lower rate than our tax rate. They have more marketing and advertising dollars, and are a full-destination resort."

Lawmakers are considering a plan that would allow these pari-mutuel facilities to compete on a more even ground with the Seminoles. The new legislation would call for a lower tax rate, higher betting limits, and longer operational hours for the pari-mutuels.

In February, Calder had pre-tax revenue of $5,129,746 for its 1,245 slot machines. Currently, pari-mutuels pay a tax rate of fifty percent on slot winnings, but that may drop to thirty-five percent in the near future.

March 9, 2010
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!