CLEVELAND -- Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert is hoping you gamble on bringing casinos to Ohio, but those against Issue 3 are voicing strong opposition.

On Monday, Gilbert and Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams squared off on the issue of casinos in Ohio in a debate on Issue 3.

Voters will decide on the casino issue in just two weeks.

Williams argued that adding casinos to Ohio's constitution would set up an unfair and under-taxed monopoly.

"Issue 3 will enshrine in to our constitution a casino monopoly for a handful of people," Williams said.

But Gilbert said the casinos will add 34,000 jobs and help rebuild the core of four Ohio cities, including Cleveland.

"It's going to be a boom to the restaurants and to the businesses downtown," Gilbert said.

Williams pounded home the message that the tax rate of 33 percent is too low. Gilbert disagreed, and took advantage of a moment when Williams was making a point about Gilbert's hometown of Detroit.

Williams pointed out that Detroit has three casinos and still has a $275 million deficit. Gilbert said the tax rate is too low there, at 19 percent.

Gilbert handled a pointed question from the crowd when he was asked whether a gambling incident when he was 18 should prevent him from owning a casino, and if not, what crimes would count.

"That's what happened to me at Michigan State, but as far as what crimes, I don't know. Probably murder, rape, extortion of funds, larceny. Good question, though," he said.

Those gambling charges against Gilbert were dismissed 30 years ago.

Some big names were at the City Club supporting Gilbert, including Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, former Browns player Bernie Kosar and Cavs GM Danny Ferry.

WHen asked what would happen if he loses his bid for casinos, Gilbert did not rule out the possibility of trying again.

At this point, yes on Issue 3 is leading in the polls.