New York Governor Kathy Hochul has denied claims that she intends to change zoning laws in her upcoming budget to allow parkland to be used for casino development. The battle for one of three downstate New York casino licenses is intensifying as stakeholders seek support for their bids. Billionaire and New York Mets owner Steve Cohen’s $8 billion casino resort proposal near Citi Field has faced opposition from local lawmakers, with Senator Jessica Ramos opposing the rezoning of parkland for commercial use.
Cohen has expressed frustration at one person having the power to block a project that could have a significant economic impact in the community. He is confident in his collaboration with Hard Rock International and believes his bid is the strongest. Rumors recently circulated that Governor Hochul was planning to introduce legislation in her 2025 state budget to allow gambling facilities on city parkland, potentially benefiting Cohen’s project. Cohen, a major donor to Hochul’s campaign, has invested heavily in lobbying efforts.
Governor Hochul, however, refuted these rumors, stating that rezoning legislation would not be included in her executive budget and emphasizing that the license selection process is independent of her office. The competition for the licenses is fierce, with almost a dozen groups vying for approval. Bally’s Corporation and Wynn Resorts are among the contenders facing challenges with zoning laws and local lawmakers.
Previously, it seemed that existing slot parlors in Queens and Yonkers were likely to secure two of the licenses. However, NYSGC Chairperson Brian O’Dwyer’s comments cast doubt on the viability of Resorts World in Queens following allegations of illegal gambling activities at their Las Vegas property. The controversy surrounding Resorts World has raised concerns about their eligibility for a casino license.
Overall, the race for New York casino licenses is heating up, with various stakeholders navigating challenges and controversies to secure approval for their projects. Governor Hochul’s denial of plans to change zoning laws for casino development underscores the complexity and intensity of the competition in the state’s gambling industry. As the license issuance process unfolds, the fate of projects like Cohen’s casino resort and others will be closely watched by industry observers.