It has been reported that Oneida County legislators Michael Hennessy and Frank Tallarino have penned a letter to the New York State Racing and Wagering Board announcing their opposition to the possible gaming expansion submitted by Syracuse Raceway, Inc.
“Video lottery terminals are offered at eight locations throughout the state," the letter says. "The limited number of facilities creates a gaming footprint in the state without overflooding the gambling market with undue competition.”
A report by The Observer-Dispatch explains that the letter goes on to say that Vernon Downs, in particular, could be forced to close if Syracuse Raceway, Inc.'s proposed racetrack and VLT complex becomes a reality.
The letter states, “The creation of a new video lottery terminal facility in such close proximity to Vernon Downs could have devastating effects on our local economy. Vernon Downs competes with Turning Stone Casino. The additional competition with Syracuse Raceway, Inc. could result in the closure of Vernon Downs subsequently causing the loss of jobs and revenue to our already eocnomically (sic) depressed area.”
(With files from The Observer-Dispatch)