A casino on Long Island?
May 8, 2008 by Michael H. Samuels
Based on a new report by the Shinnecock Indian Nation Gaming Authority and the Connecticut Center for Economic Analysis, Suffolk County Legis. Wayne Horsley wants to examine bringing a casino to Long Island.
The report claims that Shinnecock Indian Nation gaming could bring more than 20,000 new jobs, $838 million in local employment and $4.2 million in new revenue to Long Island.
“As the local economy continues to soften, we thought it would be worthwhile to examine the economic benefits of a gaming establishment here on Long Island,” Horsley said in a statement. “After all, we currently contribute to the staggering $234 million in estimated out-of-state gaming funds enjoyed by Connecticut state residents. So the question is why not take a hard look at what the benefits would be if we stopped riding the ferry and started spending our money here on Long Island, in our economy.”
I say yea! The revenue would spark our (Long Island’s) economy and create the jobs so desperately needed to keep people here.
Go for it! It would not only create jobs and tax income, but it would keep money that goes off island to the Connecticut and New Jersey casinos here on the island.
Oh yeah, one of the best ideas I’ve heard. I say got for 2 casinos on both the reservations. Cool hotels, shopping, restaurants, meida exposure, tons of jobs and revenue. I mean, are you kidding me? This is a no brainer. Yes, traffic, blah, blah, blah. Wake up, NY, take some of the CT, NJ, LV money back in house. Do something a little “whacky” sometimes.
I say if it is tastefully done, then do it. The East End has an aquarium, vineyards, great beaches and an airport that can bring people from places like Florida and even Vegas. A casino would keep people from going to Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods and AC and draw people from surrounding states to a combination of great entertainment and natural sites. It also will help grow Islip airport draw from new locations which opens up further business opportunities.
Let Long Island Gamble for Jobs. (Newsday)
I said this in 1994.
NOW IS THE TIME.