ASHLAND -- Opinions are mixed about a proposal to put a constitutional amendment allowing casino gambling in Kentucky before voters across the Bluegrass State. If it passes, Ashland could be among one of a dozen locations where a casino could be located.

"I think people need to speak out one way or the other," said Mayor Steve Gilmore. "I have no opposition to putting it on the ballot and letting people vote on it. I believe in the Democratic process. People should be allowed to vote. This is America. We vote on things here."

Gilmore isn't taking a position for or against a measure backed by Gov. Steve Beshear in his race for governor last year. Beshear said his proposal could generate $600 million a year once all the casinos are up and running and that half that money would go to education. The measure will have to be approved by the state legislature before it can be put before voters.

"The state is in dire circumstances with its finances," Gilmore said Sunday. "I'm not saying this is the answer. I'm just saying people should have a voice. Lots of people around here drive to the casinos west of Cincinnati or to the dog track in West Virginia."

Boyd County Judge-Executive Bud Stevens is opposed to the proposal.

"I don't think it'll get out of the Legislature," he said. "If it does, I'll be shocked. I don't think the people of Boyd County will vote for it."

State Sen. Charlie Borders, R-Grayson, also doubts the measure will get the votes it needs in the Kentucky House and state Senate to put the issue before the voters.

"In my opinion, this would be devastating to the commonwealth," said Borders, who represents the Ashland area in the state Senate. "I just don't see where the votes will come from. We have very few members, in my opinion, who will bend to pressure."

Kevin Gunderson, an Ashland resident and a city commissioner, supports the issue and supports putting the issue before voters to let them decide.

"There are pros and cons," he said. "There is a positive economic spin-off. Thirteen percent of the revenues will go to the local areas. It also could bring a lot of jobs to this area. What I like is that it's up to the people.

"In Kentucky, we have been gambling for years at the Kentucky Derby," Gunderson said. "Ashland residents regularly go to the riverboats in Indiana. Right now, we are educating children in West Virginia and Indiana and spending money on their roads."

City Commissioner Cheryl Spriggs opposes casino gambling.

"I'm not a gambler," she said. "I don't think the people here will vote for it. I believe it would cause more social ills than good. I don't think it's good for Ashland. They always say the money will go to schools, but I wonder."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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