MIDDLEBURG Fla.-- They've become controversial in Clay County, but for VFW Post 8225 in Middleburg, Internet sweepstakes machines could hold the key to helping more people.
"The money goes back into the community," said Post commander Steve Schneider.
Schneider says he hopes adding five sweepstakes machines to his post will raise money for multiple charitable causes the post supports.
"It helps our troops. We have troop parties here. We have Boy and Girl Scouts meet here."
But the VFW can't install the machines without permission from the Clay County Commission, who would have to vote in favor of changing zoning laws.
Commissioner Ronnie Robinson says the VFW won't get his vote.
"This is strictly about gambling, and it is gambling," said Robinson. "They're saying they're charitable foundations but I have a problem with that."
Now Schneider and the rest of the VFW are hoping they get the support of the rest of the commission.
"Without this money, those programs are going to go to the wayside," he said.
The vote is expected to take place at Tuesday night's commission meeting.
