OXNARD : Origin of Anti-Casino Signs a Puzzle

They are situated all over Oxnard--small signs stating “No Casinos, No Crime” and “No Casinos, No Prostitutes.”

Yet their origin remains a mystery--even to those most closely associated with efforts to stop gambling casinos from being built in the city.

Religious leaders deny posting the signs, although they say they support them. Community activists also say they have nothing to do with the anti-casino placards, but would like to find out and help whoever is behind the drive.

“Everybody I’ve talked to wonders who did it,” said Jane Tolmach, a former Oxnard mayor who campaigned against plans for a gambling casino in 1993. “Nobody has any idea at all.”

Tolmach said she knows many people who oppose plans to build a casino in the city. She said she has been asking around for days to find out who is behind the signs, and others have been asking her, but she still has no clue.

Oxnard Mayor Manuel Lopez, who opposes casino gambling in the city, said he has also asked many people, but has been unable to determine the source of the placards.

Each sign says it is paid for by “Concerned Tax Payers Com.,” but no one has ever heard of the group.

“It’s the greatest mystery in Oxnard right now,” Lopez said. “I sure would like to find out. I’ve been asked that a lot.”

After a torrent of public outcry, the Oxnard City Council rejected plans for a large card club in 1993.

But last month, a developer said he was talking to members of the City Council about a casino, and public concern resurfaced despite council members’ assurances that they would not back a casino.