Res. No. 1715
Resolution calling on the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign legislation that would require local legislative approval prior to the siting of commercial casinos.
By Council Members James, Barron, Cabrera, Chin, Ferreras, Koo, Koppell, Mark-Viverito, Rose and Ulrich
Whereas, The New York State Legislature is considering an amendment to the New York State Constitution that would authorize up to seven commercial casinos to be built across New York State, and
Whereas, Casinos can spur economic development and increase tax revenues by increasing employment, tourism and spending; and
Whereas, However, casinos can also lower living standards for the poor and reduce the quality of life in surrounding neighborhoods by negatively impacting existing businesses, reducing public safety, increasing traffic, and increasing the incidence of gambling and other addictions; and
Whereas, Local legislative bodies are imbued with the power to approve zoning changes, even when such changes are relatively modest, in recognition of the fact that land-use decisions can alter the fabric of communities; and
Whereas, Siting a casino in a particular community will have a very significant impact on that community as well as surrounding communities, and it is therefore incumbent on the New York State Legislature to provide a mechanism for local communities to weigh in on siting proposals before they are finalized; and
Whereas, The best way to achieve community input would be to require that prior to finalization, local legislative bodies approve or deny casino siting proposals that fall within their jurisdictions; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign legislation that would require local legislative approval prior to the siting of commercial casinos.
AM
4/2/2013
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