A Controversial Move
Some New York City developers who are eyeing to build casinos in the city have decided to fund children’s sports programs in an attempt to win public support and influence local officials. However, this move has angered some parents and activists who see it as a cynical and unethical way to promote gambling in the city.
According to a report by The New York Times, the developers have donated millions of dollars to various youth sports organizations, such as Little League Baseball, Pop Warner Football, and the Amateur Athletic Union. They have also sponsored tournaments, clinics, and camps for young athletes, as well as provided equipment, uniforms, and scholarships.
The developers claim that they are motivated by a genuine interest in helping the children and the communities, and that they are not expecting any quid pro quo from the recipients. They also argue that their casino proposals would create jobs, generate tax revenue, and boost tourism for the city.
However, some parents and activists are not convinced by their altruistic claims. They accuse the developers of using children as pawns in their casino lobbying efforts, and of exposing them to the harms of gambling addiction. They also question the legality and ethics of their donations, which they say amount to bribes and influence peddling.
A Fierce Competition
The developers’ donations are part of a fierce competition among several casino operators and real estate giants who are vying for the right to open casinos in New York City. The state Gaming Commission is authorized to issue up to three licenses in the downstate region, which includes the city and its suburbs, and Mayor Eric Adams has said he wants at least two of them given to the city.
Some of the sites being eyed for casinos are Hudson Yards, Times Square, Willets Point near Citi Field, and Coney Island. The developers and casino operators have formed partnerships and have apprised Adams’ office, Gov. Kathy Hochul, and state officials of their preliminary plans.
Among the contenders are:
- Related Companies, the major developer of Hudson Yards, which has met with City Hall to discuss a proposal to build a casino over rail tracks on the far West Side.
- Vornado Realty Trust and SL Green Realty Corp., two prominent landlords in Times Square, which have teamed up with Hard Rock International to propose a casino in the heart of the entertainment district.
- Sterling Equities, the real estate firm owned by Mets owner Steve Cohen, which has spoken to City Hall about potentially building a casino at Willets Point near Citi Field.
- Thor Equities, a Brooklyn-based developer that owns several properties in Coney Island, which has discussed erecting a casino in the seaside amusement area.
A Heated Debate
The prospect of having casinos in New York City has sparked a heated debate among various stakeholders, including politicians, business leaders, community groups, and residents. While some see casinos as a potential boon for the city’s economy and recovery from the pandemic, others fear that they would bring more problems than benefits.
Supporters of casinos argue that they would create thousands of jobs, especially for low-income and minority workers who have been hit hard by the pandemic. They also claim that they would generate billions of dollars in tax revenue for the city and the state, which could be used for education, health care, infrastructure, and other public services. They also point out that casinos would attract more tourists and visitors to the city, enhancing its global appeal and competitiveness.
Opponents of casinos counter that they would have negative social and environmental impacts on the city and its residents. They warn that casinos would increase crime, traffic congestion, noise pollution, and gambling addiction in the city. They also contend that casinos would divert money from local businesses and nonprofits, hurting their viability and vitality. They also doubt that casinos would deliver on their promises of jobs and revenue, citing examples of other cities where casinos have failed or underperformed.
A Long Process
The decision on whether to allow casinos in New York City is not expected to be made anytime soon. The state Gaming Commission has not yet issued a request for proposals from potential bidders, nor has it set a timeline for selecting the licensees. The commission is also waiting for a study on the economic impact of casinos in the downstate region, which was commissioned by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo before he resigned.
Moreover, any casino proposal would require approval from various state and local agencies, as well as input from public hearings and community boards. The process could take years to complete, depending on the complexity and controversy of each proposal.
In the meantime, the developers who are funding children’s sports programs hope that their donations will help them gain favor with the public and the officials who will ultimately decide their fate. But they may also face backlash from those who oppose their casino ambitions.
