Indianapolis should politely tell House Ways and Means Chairman Bill Crawford no thanks for his proposal to bail out the Capital Improvement Board by opening a Downtown casino.

Put stress on the word politely because Crawford has at least introduced a plan — something the mayor of Indianapolis has yet to do.

But as critical as it is for the city’s economic vibrancy to find resolution to the CIB’s budget problems, the challenges could prove to be temporary, at least in part. With completion of the convention center expansion and recovery in the overall economy, CIB revenues are likely to increase, helping to offset a portion of the deficit.

Granted, the prospect of future revenue growth does nothing to relieve the board’s current crunch. That’s why an array of tax increases have been proposed in the General Assembly, including as part of Crawford’s plan.

Tax increases, at least in theory, can be reversed as the economy rebounds and CIB revenues rise. A Downtown casino, in contrast, would set a new and permanent course for the city.

Under Crawford’s proposal, the casino, stocked with 1,500 slot machines, would raise $20.5 million for the city. But that’s less than half of the amount needed to erase the CIB’s deficit, projected to hit $47.5 million next year. To make up the difference, Crawford would increase the city’s hotel tax and the auto rental tax. The boundaries of the sports development taxing district also might be expanded.

In essence, with Crawford’s plan, the city would get the worst of all combinations — higher taxes and a fresh public nuisance (the casino).

Set aside for the moment all the traditional arguments against casinos — the higher crime rates, the financial drain on existing businesses, the rewards for an industry that undermines families, the promotion of a get-rich-quick mindset. The fact is the marketplace has become so crowded with casinos that revenues are depressed. A new gambling parlor in Indianapolis likely would further undermine existing operations.

It’s clear that solving the CIB’s problems will require sacrifices from all parties. Some tax increases will be necessary (and a regional approach remains the most suitable option on that score). The Colts and the Pacers will have to help out. The CIB, as it has done, will have to accept ongoing budget cuts.

But Marion County residents should not accept a casino in the heart of Downtown. It would be a shortsighted solution with long-lasting consequences.