NEWS
N.Y. state senator criticizes governor over racino
Posted: Thursday, December 10, 2009 3:08 PM
by Paul Post
New York state Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. (D-Queens), whose district includes Aqueduct, blasted Gov. David Paterson and other state leaders for failing to name a gaming operator for the Jamaica New York track.
Aqueduct is slated to get 4,500 video lottery terminals.
Five groups submitted bids weeks ago and while state officials say a decision will be made soon, there’s been no announcement.
“I’ve already met with each of the bidders two times,” Addabbo said. “We know all the information we’re going to know. A decision should have been made. There’s just no reason for the delay.”
Last week the legislature approved a $3.2-billion Deficit Reduction Plan that contemplates a $200-million upfront payment from whichever organization gets the 30-year gaming contract. A decision has yet to be been made.
Once an operator is selected, it will take 60 days to work out a memorandum of understanding and another 30 days to transfer cash to the state, Addabbo said. “We risk not realizing the $200 million this fiscal year if a decision isn’t made soon,” he said.
The state’s fiscal year ends March 31, 2010.
With work concluded in Albany, the state capital, Addabbo returned to his district where he said constituents keep pressing him about Aqueduct. In addition to generating revenues for the state, the racino is expected to create hundreds of jobs and promote the Queens economy with retail and entertainment venue development. Some bidders plan to build a hotel as well.
“We can’t realize these benefits if a decision isn’t made,” Addabbo said. “We’re all questioning why one hasn’t been made. There is no reason. That’s the most frustrating part. I’m comfortable working with anyone that’s chosen.”
Addabbo said he plans to contact Paterson’s office again this week.
“Aqueduct is an icon,” he said. “We’d like to keep it a racetrack. How do you keep it a racetrack? VLTs. Let’s just make a decision.”
Paul Post is a New York-based correspondent for Thoroughbred Times
