The MGM Empire City Community Advisory Committee and city officials invited Yonkers residents to voice their opinions after an application for a commercial casino license was submitted in June, and they were met with differing reactions.
Key Takeaways
- MGM and city officials held a hearing regarding MGM Empire City’s application for a commercial casino license.
- Yonkers residents expressed mixed opinions on the matter.
- Despite support from Mayor Mike Spano, some residents were more concerned about schools in the district.
Officials and public members gathered at the first of the two mandatory meetings to express opinions about the project and its potential effects on residents before the community advisory committee holds a binding vote on whether the bid can advance to the next stage, according to News12 Westchester.
Mayor Mike Spano is on board with the bid, saying, "The award of a casino gaming license to MGM Empire City will spur a transformative redevelopment, including new destination dining experiences and a first-of-its-kind entertainment venue in the region that will draw A-list performers and events."
While the mayor sees this revamp in a positive light, the public's response was mixed. Some Yonkers residents disapprove of Empire City’s license application, with one saying, "This is money we desperately need to fix our aging schools, improve infrastructure, and support essential city services. Let's not start debating hypothetical problems. Let's focus on real, tangible benefits."
MGM Empire City Racino aims to upgrade casino license
MGM Yonkers submitted its bid for a license June 26, with plans to upgrade its Yonkers Empire City racino to a full-service commercial casino.
Redevelopment plans presented to the New York Gaming Commission include a rearranged gaming area, an enlarged high-limit lounge, and a retail BetMGM Sportsbook building.
The renovation is expected to have economic benefits for the Yonkers community. Ten percent of tax revenue will go directly to the Yonkers community, and another 10% will be split between Westchester County, Rockland County, and Putnam County.
Upgrades would be completed by mid-2029 if approved.
Bally’s face controversy as Mayor Adams vetoes City Council's decision
MGM Resorts is not the only company bidding for a commercial license in New York. Bally’s bid to build a casino in the Bronx was initially rejected by the City Council due to a zoning change.
Yet, Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the rejection. This decision was controversial, as Mayor Adams has been accused of endorsement. If Bally’s were to receive approval, the Trump Organization, the former operator of the site the casino was pitched for, would receive $115 million.
