Hayden mayor speaks out strongly against HB 127, the anti-tribal gaming bill
Steve Griffitts, mayor of Hayden and for 12 years head of the “Jobs Plus” economic development organization in Kootenai County, spoke out against HB 127, the anti-tribal gaming bill this morning. “Morally, personally and religiously I am not an advocate for gambling at any level,” he told the House State Affairs Committee. But, he said, “I am surprised that this bill would be entertained, as in my opinion it sends a poor message to any company looking to expand or relocate to Idaho. For many decades I recruited companies on the fact that Idaho has a strong and consistent business climate.” The Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s gaming operations were approved by the voters and leaders of Idaho and upheld in court, he said.
“Thousands of strong, high paying jobs have resulted from their investments,” Griffitts said. “This bill in my opinion sends a negative message that strong economic growth consistent with the laws of the land can be adversely affected by potentially conflicting legislation. Thirteen thousand jobs and $1 billion dollars is in jeopardy if this bill moves forward.”
Griffitts said, “In all of my interactions with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and its executive leadership, two clear tenets have been identified: One, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe has consistently been a strong community partner, and two, they have honored each and every commitment they have made to every organization I have been a part of. They have been honest, benevolent and trustworthy in every instance.”
When he began listing ways the tribe has contributed to the community, Griffitts was interrupted by Rep. Joe Palmer, R-Meridian, who said, “I understand that gambling has been good for certain areas of the state. I do not think that we need to repeat over and over again that.” Rep. Vito Barbieri, R-Dalton Gardens, agreed, and said Griffitts shouldn’t be allowed to continue. Rep. Paulette Jordan, D-Plummer, sharply disagreed, and said if anti-gambling advocates are allowed to speak about their beliefs about the evils of gambling, the mayor should be able to represent his view and his constituents.
After being cautioned, Griffitts concluded his remarks, telling the lawmakers they face an “interesting dilemma,” as “Advocates of gambling are asking you to vote yes,” while he and others who aren’t advocates of gambling are asking them to vote no.
Rep. Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, told Griffitts, “I agree the Coeur d’Alene Tribe has done so much for the community up north. You had mentioned you like to have a clear business climate. I think the concern that the committee here today has is that the code has not been super clear, and I think this language is trying to clarify that.”
Griffitts said businesses need both clarity and consistency to operate.
