The New Jersey 'transition team' suggestions for possibly closing the Meadowlands have been met with harsh criticism from one of the state’s most important and

influential newspapers.

The Asbury Park Press blasted the idea, and suggested editorially that governor Christie “should instruct staff to go back to the starting gate in assessing horseracing’s future.”

The editorial said the panel was “top-heavy with people whose interests conflict with those in the racing industry,” and it likened the panel’s deliberations to “asking McDonald’s to make suggestions to menu changes for Burger King.”

The item suggested that if the Meadowlands were not profitable, the state should find a way to make it so, rather than abandoning it.

The Asbury Park Press item noted that the panel included “only one representative from the horse industry, the CEO of a standardbred farm. Someone representing thoroughbred owners and breeders should have been included.”

It went on to say the committee was led by the chairman of a real estate management company and included two representatives from the lottery, three casino representatives, two people from the YES sports network and another real estate professional, and concluded, “Horse racing, particularly for thoroughbreds, got short shrift.”

The piece suggested Christie reach out to senator Richard Codey, probably New Jersey’s most knowledgeable legislator on racing issues, who advocates slots at tracks in the state.

It concluded, “Christie can’t let horse racing -- and the environmental and employment benefits it brings -- fall prey to the desires of other gaming interests in the state.”

It suggested, “he should take a drive past the horse farms in Monmouth County, then head to Monmouth Park for its May 1 opener. It might help him understand that the open space, the jobs and the family-friendly environment horse racing provides is a trifecta the state can’t afford to lose.”

(Harness Tracks of America)