DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – City and business leaders are backing an effort to end greyhound racing in Dubuque and Council Bluffs.  The Mystique greyhound track in Dubuque and Bluffs Run Greyhound Park at Horseshoe Council Bluffs are the last two remaining in the state, and attendance has been falling for years due to casinos. Gambling profits at the tracks have plummeted from a combined total of $186 million in 1986 to $5.9 million in 2012.

The Des Moines Register reports about $14 million in annual subsidies from Iowa casino profits help keep greyhound racing operations afloat. Some lawmakers believe the money could be better spent. Other lawmakers, expressing concern over job losses, say they want the greyhound industry and casino industry to reach an agreement before a bill is formally on the table.