12.16.2009 -  Testimony Concerning Cultural Tourism & Proposed Gaming Expansion in RI
Delivered to the House Finance Committee on February 7, 2008


Mr. Chairman, Members of the Committee:                      

Good Afternoon---- I am David Leys, Vice President of the Preservation Society of Newport County, and would like to speak to you with regard to bills 7040, 7161.

People know us as the Newport Mansions: The Breakers, Marble House, Rosecliff and such. But we are much more than that. The Preservation Society has stewardship responsibilities for 11 historic house museums accredited by the American Association of Museums. The houses cover 250 years of America’s heritage and attract over 700,000 visits each year. The Preservation Society is the most visited cultural attraction in Rhode Island and 4^th most visited museum in New England.  The Society operates on a budget of approximately 16 million dollars, has over 100 full-time employees and 200-300 seasonal staff during the peak season. The Preservation Society’s regional economic impact is conservatively estimated at over $100 million annually. Our membership includes 21,000 individuals from all across the country and overseas- with the majority of our members residing within the State.

The marketing strategy of the Preservation Society is focused on promoting cultural tourism in Newport County. Towards that effort $250,000 was budgeted this past year for paid advertising through various print and electronic media. Despite serious competition from other regional attractions, including those involved in gaming, we think our strategy is working. A recent survey conducted for the Society by an independent firm indicated that 78% of those visiting the Newport area came because they wanted to see the famous mansions of Newport-only 3% said they came because of gambling. 

There is no doubt in our mind that cultural tourism is good for Newport. This small city by the sea has not only the Gilded Age mansions, but historic Hunter House, Redwood Library and the Touro Synagogue. These historic sites, and many more like them represent not only the colonial era but an important part of America’s heritage. Cultural tourism respects our country’s history and our common heritage.

Newport is actively seeking designation as a World Heritage Site. The expansion of gambling on a 24/7 basis will undercut our efforts and others to promote Newport’s image as being worthy of “World Heritage” designation. We will instead become known as “the casino by the sea," a term that will do nothing to help us in our effort; instead it will hurt us.

The idea of Newport being classified as a 24 hour gambling mecca will eventually negate all that we and others are trying to do to promote quality tourism for the area. Quality tourism provides jobs, supports local establishments, funds preservation of our historic buildings, and helps maintain the character and sense of place that is unique to Newport.

We are opposed to the Bento bill No. 7040, but would support, if necessary, the Jackson bill 7161.

Thank you for your time.