The Tyson community opposes the plan to build a new casino

TYSONS, Va. – Community members in Northern Virginia are continuing their efforts to stop the construction of a casino in Tysons.

As we get closer VirginiaDuring the legislative period, the proponents and opponents of the proposal prepare themselves.

There are still a few major hurdles before this would happen: First, the Virginia Legislature would have to pass something.

This initiative was submitted last year, but FOX 5 reported last week that it is expected to be brought up again. If passed, there would also be a local vote in which Fairfax County residents would have to approve the proposal.

But residents who attended Sunday’s meeting at McLean High School are adamant that’s not what they want.

One reason is simply frustration with the process.

Residents want to know more about the project itself and are concerned about the impact of communities surrounding casinos when it comes to issues such as crime, gambling addiction concerns and frustration over how voters feel their voices are being left out.

RELATED: Union workers rally in support of a possible Tysons casino project

FOX 5 spoke with Fairfax resident Michael Davis who reiterated something FOX 5 heard several times – that there is very little organic support for this

“I think it’s really unfortunate that we really need to have this conversation. People in the community have not expressed interest in having a casino. That’s not to say that casinos can’t add value in certain areas,” said Michael Davis. “This community didn’t ask for it, and neither do we. The fact that we have to fight not to have one seems unfortunate and not a good use of time.”

Linda Walsh organizes against the casino. She says the presence of this coalition will remain active.

“We’re trying to make sure everyone understands the implications of having a casino in their neighborhood by making sure we organize groups to get the message out. That’s the most important thing for us right now,” said Walsh.

Last week, FOX 5’s Melanie Alnwick reported on a meeting of union members who want this project.

Outside the Fairfax Board of Supervisors, they believe the tax revenue it would raise is the jobs it would create. They estimate that $5,000 would be the net positive.

Union worker Nelson Aguilar told FOX 5 last week that he supports the casino.

“Every year my taxes go up. This is going to bring in tax revenue and that would at least take some of the burden off my shoulders. We just want to have the vote and the opportunity,” Aguilar said.

The battle lines are still being drawn as this is expected to bring another attempt in Richmond. FOX 5 stays ahead of developments.