Both the House and Senate have passed a gambling expansion bill that would put 1,200 slot machines at Arlington Park, as well as casinos in Lake County, the southern suburbs and Chicago.

But Mayor Arlene Mulder said the village has been down this road a few times before and is still unsure the park would get slots, she said.

The bill goes to Gov. Pat Quinn, who must sign it to make it law. He has previously opposed the bill because he believes the expansion is too large, but has lately indicated he may be more inclined to sign off on such legislation.

The majority of the Arlington Heights village board informally supported slots at the park at a recent meeting, and sent a letter to all legislators expressing their stance. Economic concerns are the primary reason the board supports slot machines, particularly the possibility Arlington Park would close if it’s revenues don’t increase.

“The loss of horse-racing in the state would impact a lot more people than most people realize at a time when the economy is so weak and jobs are so scarce,” she said. “You’ve got to at least support what you’ve got going.”

The park employs nearly 4,000 people as part of its operations and is the second-largest employer based in Arlington Heights, behind Township High School District 214.

Tony Petrillo, general manager of Arlington Park was pleased the addition of 1,200 slot machines was part of the gambling package.

He believes it will not only be a good move for the Village of Arlington Heights, but increase the tax base and revenues for the state.

The park has recently conducted a survey, launched a website and delivered information to trustees as it gears up to sell the idea of slots at the track.