STATEMENT ON UPCOMING CASINO ADVISORY COMMITTEE VOTE

BROOKLYN, NY — “As the State Senator representing Coney Island and a member of the Casino Advisory Committee, I am proud to publicly share that I will be voting NO in the upcoming vote regarding The Coney’s casino license application.

“Since the New York State Gaming Commission’s casino licensing process began and The Coney’s application was presented for review, I was clear that I would allow this process to play out but would ultimately vote in the direction of what the majority of the community that I represent wants, needs, and deserves. After taking part in two public hearings regarding this application, reading countless testimonies, and meeting with and hearing from my constituents about their thoughts, perspectives, and concerns regarding this application, I have decided to vote in opposition.

“After engaging in dialogue with the applicants and reviewing their materials, and taking into consideration issues such as the proposed project’s impact on public safety, transportation and congestion, gambling and substance use, youth and older adults, and Coney Island’s infrastructure, local businesses, and historic cultural landscape, I have concluded that The Coney’s application would not be suitable for the proposed location.

“I thank The Coney team for putting forward this application, the New York State Gaming Commission for facilitating this process, and most importantly, my constituents and the Coney Island community for their participation and testimonies.”