Toronto's executive committee will consider on Monday two motions opposing the construction of a casino inside city limits.

One of the motions up for debate before the 13-member committee reaffirms the need for a public referendum before a decision is made, while another would rule out Ontario Place as a possible location.

Debate on whether to add a downtown casino in Toronto has been growing since the provincial government expressed its interest in the project earlier this year.

The provincial government has said a Toronto casino could bring in $4 billion annually and create 4,000 new jobs.

A motion by Coun. Adam Vaughan recommends that no casino be permitted in Toronto unless officials conduct a city-wide referendum on the subject, as part of a general election.

The motion would halt the debate over a possible casino until the city's next election in October of 2014.

According to the motion, a casino can have a negative impact on local businesses, particularly nearby bars and restaurants. Crime, suicide, prostitution and drug related crimes are also significant worries, it suggests.

The city held a referendum in 1997 on whether to allow a permanent gaming facility in the city. Seventy-two per cent of Torontonians voted against the casino at that time.

A recent poll suggested that a new referendum would result in almost the same number.

Another motion in front of the executive committee on Monday will seek to maintain the downtown site of Ontario Place as "a public space for families and all Toronto residents to enjoy," blocking the construction of casinos or other gaming facilities there.

The motion, put forward by Coun. Mike Layton, suggests the 96-acre Ontario Place has been a family destination since it opened in 1971.

The number of visitors to the waterfront attraction has declined in recent years, leading to the closure of its water park, amusement rides and movie theatre earlier this year.

An executive with MGM Resorts has identified Ontario Place as an appealing location for a casino and entertainment complex.