Electronic Gaming Not A Sure Bet In Nassau County If Democrats Get Their Way
MINEOLA, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Is electronic gambling a sure bet in Nassau County? The County Executive says it is, but now there is a new call to say no to the casino in any location.
As CBS2's Carolyn Gusoff reported, Nassau County is banking on big bucks from video slot machines, but the controversial gaming parlor doesn't even have a home yet.
With no location picked critics say planning on imaginary revenue is a gamble. County Executive Ed Mangano's proposed budget counts on $20-million next year.
"Twenty million dollars, that's based on what ifs or a question mark or a possibility, it's not good budgeting," Judy Jacobs said.
County Democrats now say they'll oppose a gaming parlor anywhere in Nassau.
"I've spoken to hundreds of people that have told me on a recurring basis that the casino has no place in this county," said Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams.
Remember the brouhaha in Westbury over the former Fortunoff site? Furious residents forced Off Track Betting to fold, its new game plan involves announcing a temporary site in December.
Sources familiar with the process said Belmont Racetrack is a likely pick. There's opposition there too.
"An increase in crime, increase in littering. It is not a positive contribution to our community," Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages said.
A temporary location could be up and running in weeks of site selection. The County Executive has said with OTB assurances, the revenue is a sure bet.
Nassau's Financial Oversight Board warned that it needs to see concrete measures to make the budget line credible.
Nassau OTB is exempt from local zoning laws and can essentially put a gaming parlor anywhere it wants, but OTB board members are appointed by this legislature, and some of its members threatened to remove them if they force a casino on a community.
A spokesman for Republican Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano said he looks forward to reviewing the Democrat's alternate budget proposal.