ANDERSON, Ind. -- A new study by Ball State University raises skepticism about the positive impact of racetrack casinos on the local economies they claim to support.

Researchers looked at so-called 'racinos' in West Virginia over a 26-year period and found that they do not provide an economic boom, but instead depress local incomes with low-paying jobs, 6News' Norman Cox reported.

The study showed that the businesses increased employment in communities by 1.1 percent, but decreased overall salaries 2.9 percent.

"Racinos are typically, despite their reported income, in the area consistent with other retail activities, eating and drinking establishments, fast-food restaurants," said Ball State professor Michael Hicks.

Two racetrack casinos have opened within the past two years in central Indiana -- Hoosier Park Racing & Casino in Anderson and Indiana Live! Casino in Shelbyville.

Industry leaders called the study flawed, and said that racinos provide jobs that otherwise wouldn't exist.

"At Hoosier Park, we employ over 1,000 local residents," said gaming manager Jim Brown. "Our employees, including salaries, wages, tips and benefits, average earnings are above $30,000 a year. We have a high satisfaction rate of our employees."

6News asked to talk to Hoosier Park employees, but were only allowed to interview hand-picked individuals, while managers looked on.

"We do pretty decent here. I'm not complaining," one man said.

"I really enjoy my job. I get to meet new people every day," a woman said. "I have really fun employees that I work with. I make good wages."

Hicks said Hoosier Park's $30,000 salary figure, which includes benefits, is inflated by as much as 40 percent.

Representatives from Indiana Live! Casino did not respond to a request for comment on this story.