Jekyll official says board opposes gambling plan

JEKYLL ISLAND - Jekyll Island Authority Chairman Bob Krueger says the authority board does not favor legalized gambling at the state park.

Legislation to permit video lottery terminals at the park - as well as at Lake Lanier Islands - is being proposed by state Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah.

Krueger said Monday that the authority does not support any activity that would degrade the family atmosphere on Jekyll Island.

Stephens, chairman of the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee, says he wants to have video lottery terminals on Jekyll Island and at other tourist destinations to boost revenue for the HOPE scholarship program. He proposes that the gambling machines be in centralized locations, with restricted access and under local control.