Osaka Prefecture is a candidate for an integrated resort (IR) venue in Japan.However, opponents of the project are continuing their efforts to stop the process and push for a referendum.
When the deadline for IR proposals was reached in April, only two prefectures, Osaka and Nagasaki, remained.The two prefectures submitted a project proposal to the country within the deadline, despite opposition urging reconsideration.
The government may announce the selection within the next three months.In that case, you have to choose either one, both, or nothing.However, casino opponents will not end without fighting to the end.
Yesterday, according to GGR Asia, Osaka casino opponents announced that they would submit a new referendum request on July 7st.This is in response to the successful signing activity in the prefecture.
The group says it was able to collect 19 signatures.This is 5 more than the legally required referendum.
Concerns remain
The Osaka Prefectural Assembly has already rejected such a request, which is not a good sign for this initiative.However, the Local Autonomy Law requires certain procedures from the administration, so at least efforts will have to be made.
However, under the Local Autonomy Law, the government must take certain procedures.After that, a plan to be deliberated by the prefectural assembly must be prepared.Then, it will be deliberated and voted by the prefectural assembly.
Lobbyists are not only opposed to building a casino in the area, but are also concerned about costs. Consortia, including MGM Resorts International, will pay $ 100 billion.However, Osaka will bear at least $ 13 billion.
Osaka Prefecture faces proceedings in IR
Osaka Prefecture chose Yumeshima as the location of the IR.Although it is an artificial island, it has not fully demonstrated its potential.With an area of about 960 acres, most of the island is unused.
Soil surveys have shown that it may not be suitable for the construction of large heavy loads.As a result, rework is required.Osaka Prefecture has agreed to bear the cost, which will result in a $ 10 billion investment.
The government has repeatedly said that it does not use tax revenue, but many people are not convinced.As a result, a local law firm wants to sue the government for violating its own rules, the government explained.
The proceedings came after the Osaka Prefectural Audit Committee rejected a request to review the land lease agreement.Opponents of the casino plan claim that the deal violates Japan's Local Government Finance Act, which limits excessive public spending.A majority of the Osaka City Audit Committee opposed the audit.
The Asahi Shimbun, a local media outlet, reported that five former Osaka city councils claimed that the city had paid 5 billion yen (US $ 790 million) for soil improvement work on the site.This is said to be illegal.
There is growing support for IR in Osaka at the government level.In recent elections, the political parties that support the casino have increased their seats and strengthened their power.
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