I was an executive of Resorts International, when we opened Paradise Island, across a bridge from Nassau and locals could not gamble then, 50 years later, still can’t.

Singapore, where some Bermuda legislators visited several years ago, has two casinos, and charges an entry fee to locals. Japan, a country that just approved three casinos, will have restrictions on the frequency of resident’s visits to the casino and will charge a $50 entry fee for each local visit.

The big picture is that many visitors want a different kind of entertainment, after the golf, sun and surf activities retire for the day. And with most island destinations and South Florida offering casino gaming, there are many tourists who won't vacation in a resort that has no casino gaming.

The Bermuda legislature should make decisions on what is best for the country but let the citizens determine whether they want to be able to play in the casino, and if any restrictions should apply.

Previous Gaming Commission executive, Richard Schuetz, worked with me at two Nevada companies, the Sands in Las Vegas, and Gold River in Laughlin. He is a capable executive, with extensive experience in management, marketing and Casino Commission oversight in California, but Bermuda politics caused his resignation. Hopefully, the next Casino Commission executive will be allowed the necessary independence to oversee gaming development and operations.