Video Story
Watch VideoCripple Creek gambles on Amendment 50
Story By: Nicole Vandeputte
Source: KOAA
Cripple Creek is hoping for a big payoff. The passage of Amendment 50 means the state's gambling towns can raise betting limits, and extend hours. City leaders believe that will bring more money to the town.
If Cripple Creek had a voice, it may just sound like David English. After losing a hand at Blackjack, he says, "Oh! you robbed me again." The town's lost a lot of money from the struggling economy, and the passage of the smoking ban. It's partly blamed for the closing of the Wildhorse Casino. Mayor Dan Baader says, "It's not good, because it's real dollars, in the millions. The state's losing 8 million dollars."
The city may just hit jackpot. Amendment 50 passed. That means casinos could stay open 24/7, and stakes would go higher; From a $5 max, to $100.
Buddy Shaver's playing 3 card poker. He's ready to up the ante. "If I'm winning a lot, I might just bet $40 to $50," says Shaver. It's at these tables, 3 card poker, blackjack, where players say a bigger bet, means better odds. Shaver says, "$5 When you bet, you can't win anything back, and especially with blackjack. English agrees, "It's a house advantage, whereas, if you can move up and down on bets, you have a better advantage, and it's more fun."
The benefits of Amendment 50 may reach beyond the table. Mayor Baader says, "We're hoping all these casinos expand, or drive business up. At the same time, fill these empty businesses in town with services, stores, retail and other gaming companies."
You never know what hand you'll be dealt. Shaver had a bad day at the table. Like English, who kept winning, the city's also hoping for a win.
Voters in Cripple Creek still have to decide if they want these changes made to their town. Mayor Baader says he'll meet with casino general managers on Tuesday to decide how they'll proceed with that. The earliest these changes could come, would be July 1.
