NYC Council set to advance Bally's casino proposal, potentially threatening council members' influence.
The Bally's casino proposal in the Bronx, New York City, remains active despite significant local opposition and controversy. The proposal, which includes a large casino, hotel, retail, entertainment spaces, and community benefits, has been the subject of heated debates among local residents, community groups, and city officials.
The proposal was initially rejected by Bronx Community Board 10 due to concerns such as increased crime, traffic, and loss of parkland. However, this rejection is advisory and not binding, and the City Council's decision to approve Bally's bid represents a departure from the traditional practice of "member deference," where elected officials typically defer to local community boards' decisions.
Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the council's initial rejection of Bally's land use application last week, allowing the Bally's bid to proceed. This move has sparked debates about member deference, with some critics pointing to potential conflicts of interest due to Adams' friendly relationship with President Trump and two people in his inner circle who have worked for Bally's.
Currently, Bally’s aims to secure one of three downstate casino licenses expected to be awarded by the end of 2025. The ultimate decision to grant a casino license lies with the state Gaming Facility Location Board.
Council Member Bob Holden, who has expressed disagreement with the New York City Council's decision not to block a casino bid in the Bronx, mentioned that going against member deference isn't always bad. He used the example of a vote in the last council over the New York Blood Center, which did not kill the tradition.
However, the New York City Council's Democratic conference has determined they likely wouldn't hold a vote to override Mayor Adams' veto of the council's earlier rejection of Bally's land use application for the casino. It's unclear if they have the votes to pass the override, as the council would have to schedule a meeting to do so ahead of a tight deadline next week.
Council Member Kristy Marmorato, who has opposed the Bally's Corp.'s casino proposal in her district, did not respond to requests for comment. Other members of the Bronx delegation in the City Council argue that the Bally's casino proposal should have a chance, as it promises thousands of union jobs and improved amenities.
In his statement, Mayor Adams expressed a desire to give the proposal the same opportunity as other bidders to compete for a casino license. The ultimate success of the Bally's casino proposal in the Bronx will depend on the state Gaming Facility Location Board's decision later this year.
- The political debate surrounding the Bally's casino proposal in the Bronx, New York City, extends beyond local opposition to include policy-and-legislation discussions about member deference and conflicts of interest.
- The New York City Council's potential decision to override Mayor Eric Adams' veto of their initial rejection of the Bally's land use application for the casino is an instance of housing policy-and-legislation unfolding within the broader context of general-news events and politics.
