As the New Orleans mayor who brought the first land-based casino to the state of Louisiana, I know first-hand the opportunities–and the obstacles–of trying to bring gaming to an urban environment. That’s why I’m increasingly concerned to see the weakest arguments against development in New York City deployed against enormous economic opportunity for the city and state.
Top gaming operators are currently vying for three downstate casino licenses the state announced last year. Not surprisingly, opposition has been lining up to a number of projects before a single proposal has even been submitted. My sincere hope is that the decisionmakers allow the process to play out with integrity and give all proposals a fair hearing.
