New Hampshire Casino Revenues Up 69% YoY, Police Chief Opposes Hampton Beach Casino

Charitable casinos in New Hampshire generated $26.2 million in August, a 69% year-on-year increase from $15.5 million in August 2024. Games of chance generated $5.5 million, a 62% year-on-year rise from $3.4 million, and historic horse racing revenue increased 71%, from $12.1 million to $20.7 million. 

While the Hampton Beach Casino redevelopment is currently undergoing approval from the New Hampshire planning board, the North Hampton Police Chief has voiced concerns, warning of the potential consequences for the community. 

New Casinos Bring Revenue Rises

The latest report from the New Hampshire Lottery and Gaming Commission shows that of the 15 casinos in the state, three reported losses, while eight saw year-on-year profits increase, one in the triple digits. Four were not open in August 2024, so there were no year-on-year figures to report. 

The Revo Casino Lebanon saw the most significant year-on-year revenue increase, with profits rising 291% from $450,477 to $1.8 million, with Historic Horse Racing revenue increasing 363.1% year-on-year from $310,645 to $1.4 million. Additionally, the Aces + Eights Casino saw a double-digit revenue increase of 18.7% from $202,738 to $240,651. 

Newly opened casinos in the state saw some of the highest revenues in August. The Nash Casino generated the highest revenue in the state, with $6.4 million generated, along with the Lilac Club Casino and Casino Salem, which generated $1.7 million and just over $1 million, respectively. 

The biggest loser in August was The Lucky Moose Casino, which saw profits fall 85.8% year-on-year, dropping from $700,108 to $99,609 after reporting no Historic Horse Racing revenue in August. The casino permanently closed its doors on September 16. 

Hampton Police Chief Strives to Keep Community Safe With Warning 

While the August figures show the success of newly opened casinos in New Hampshire, one police chief has warned of the impacts that New Hamption residents may feel if the Hampton Beach Casino redevelopment plans go ahead. 

North Hampton Police Chief Kevin Walsh has warned in a letter to the Planning Board that the new project may lead to economic decline, increased traffic, crime, problem gambling, and other social costs. 

“Considering research and information from other communities, I urge the Hampton Planning Board to carefully evaluate the significant risks highlighted below prior to approving any casino-related developments. The negative impacts outweigh the positives that come with the presence of a casino,” Walsh said in the letter, dated Sept 22. 

The letter was posted after town officials asked for community input on the project. However, the letter's receipt fell short as no other opposition was expressed at the October 2 Planning Board meeting.