BIDDEFORD, Maine (AP) — Backers of a referendum to allow a harness racing track with slot machines in southern Maine are kicking off their campaign.

The Nov. 8 statewide referendum will ask voters if they want to allow slot machines at a track in Biddeford or another community within 25 miles of the Scarborough Downs race track and at a track in Washington County. Ocean Properties Ltd. and Scarborough Downs are teaming up on the project.

Speaking Monday at a Biddeford horse farm, leaders of the “Yes on Question 2” campaign said the $120 million development will create hundreds of jobs, generate tens of millions of dollars in tax revenues and revive Maine’s harness racing industry.

Casino critics say the facility would suck money out of the Maine economy and won’t help economic development.