Plainridge's share of horse fund increases

The state Gaming Commission has once again voted to increase the share of a harness racing development fund that goes to Plainridge Park Casino.

The casino, which runs harness racing during the spring and summer, will get 60 percent of the fund as opposed to the 55 percent it was receiving as the result of a 4-1 vote by the commission Thursday.

When the casino first opened in 2015, it was only getting 25 percent and thoroughbred horse racing was getting 75 percent.

But, the commission, based on the recommendation of a horse-racing committee, has been changing the split because there is virtually no thoroughbred racing in Massachusetts to share the fund since Suffolk Downs in Boston closed.

The Plainville track operates more than 100 races per year.

Eighty percent of the horse development fund is earmarked for purses — the winnings that go to horse owners and drivers.

Plainridge contends the increased purses at its Route 1 track mean a higher quality of racing and owners reinvesting in the industry.

Steve O’Toole of Plainridge said the 5 percent increase in Plainridge’s share “is obviously a good thing. It means purses will keep steady for the next year.”

Revenue for the horse development fund comes from taxes on slot machines at Plainridge.

The 49 percent tax is split by the state with 40 percent going toward local aid and 9 percent to the development fund.

Plainridge has been paying more than $1 million a month into the fund from the 9 percent tax on slot machines.

By Jim Hand

Reprinted with permission of The Sun Chronicle