New slot machines may come to Miami International Airport

MIAMI, FL - As reported by The Miami Herald: "Miami-Dade
  County said it needs new sources of cash to meet rising airport costs -- and that could come in the form of slot machines.

Miami-Dade County leaders think they could be.

On Tuesday, Miami-Dade commissioners voted to allow the county manager to immediately seek a permit that would give the county the ability to apply for a slot machine license from state officials.

The move came at the urging of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, which is scrambling for new revenue sources to plug giant anticipated deficits. The surprise move triggered instant reaction, much of it critical.

Airport officials said quick action is required because the laws governing gambling in Florida are set to change with final approval of the gaming compact between the state and the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

''The window of opportunity may close shortly,'' said Miguel Southwell, deputy aviation director. ``It doesn't mean we would do it, but we would like to have the option.''

The county's decision to pursue slot machines at MIA is sure to become a hot-button issue, reigniting the debate about where gaming should be made available in Miami-Dade -- and who should house it.

''There is tremendous sensitivity to the concerns of the law of unintended consequences when the county becomes competitors with the private sector,'' said lobbyist Ron Book, who represents Flagler Dog Track and Entertainment Center in Miami..."