Ex- Oregon Governors Oppose Ballot Measures

Four of Oregon's living former governors are coming out against two ballot measures that would authorize Oregon's first nontribal casino. Republican Vic Atiyeh and Democrats Barbara Roberts and Ted Kulongoski are joining opponents of the proposal. Current Gov. John Kitzhaber also has opposed Measures 82 and 83, which would allow investors to build a casino in Wood Village, just east of Portland. Opponents have warned that a new casino would increase crime in the area while harming Indian tribes that operate Oregon's nine existing casinos. The proposed Portland-area casino is backed by two Lake Oswego businessmen and two Canadian companies. They've spent liberally on television commercials touting jobs and money for parks, police and schools.