The Lakeshore Horse Racing Association says a new agreement with the province could jeopardize the long-term future of harness racing in this area.
The association refused to sign a 19-year deal with Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation following an emergency meeting Sunday night.
Members say they won't be pressured into signing a deal before Tuesday's deadline.
The $105-million deal would guarantee Leamington $35,000 for each of the 13 racing cards for the next three years.
Association member Tom Bain tells CTV News there were too many red flags for members.
“What they offered just will not sustain horse racing in all of southwestern Ontario, not just Lakeshore Raceway,” says Bain, the Mayor of Lakeshore. “Not one of them will continue racing with the amount that is on the table.”
Bain says after three years, racing would be privatized and handled by a new group -- the Ontario Racing Management.
He says it's an offshoot of Woodbine Entertainment Group.
