The Wichita Chamber of Commerce is opposing casino gambling in Sedgwick County.

The group released this statement today:

After months of careful study, the Wichita Metro Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors released today a position to oppose casino gambling in Sedgwick County.

The Board's decision came after thorough study and deliberation, including an examination of the legislation and economic impact studies by a task force of the Board of Directors, listening to membership through a member survey, and discussing the issue with four decades of former, current and future Chamber leaders.

The Board does not believe supporting a casino in our community will advance the Wichita Metro Chamber's mission to empower our business members to increase the wealth and well-being of all south-central Kansans.

There was strong evidence that any economic benefits derived from a casino were quickly outweighed by the anticipated negative impact on our local businesses, government partners and the overall growth and vibrancy of our general economy.

"Our Board is committed to making tough decisions on tough issues, even when there is no clear consensus among our members," says Les Depperschmidt, Chairman of the Wichita Metro Chamber Board of Directors. "Our members have empowered our Board to take bold positions on issues that affect the economic advancement of our members and our region."