Bally’s Bronx Casino Project Progresses Despite NYC Mayor’s Veto
NYC Mayor Overrides Council to Support Bally’s Bronx Casino
On Wednesday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams exercised his veto power against the City Council’s decision regarding the zoning for Bally’s proposed casino in the Bronx. This move allows the ambitious $4 billion casino project to continue advancing.
Mayor Criticizes Council’s Uneven Treatment of Boroughs
The mayor expressed concerns that the City Council’s handling of the Bronx casino bid was inconsistent compared to other boroughs. He highlighted that the council’s denial of the Bronx zoning application runs counter to the stated support from the Bronx borough president and multiple councilmembers representing the borough’s working-class districts. Adams pointed out that the council had approved similar zoning changes for casinos in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn, but singled out the Bronx with a rejection. He argued this selective approach undermines public trust in elected officials.
Background: Council’s Previous Decision and State License Competition
This veto follows the City Council’s rejection of the zoning amendment required for Bally’s casino to proceed, a decision made two weeks earlier. The zoning change was essential for Bally’s to move forward with their bid for a state gaming license. New York is scheduled to issue three gaming licenses for the city by year-end, with eight competitors vying for these coveted positions.
Next Steps in Bally’s Bronx Casino Proposal
With the mayor’s veto in place, Bally’s plan to develop a casino facility on its golf course in Throggs Neck can progress to the next stage. A local voting committee comprised of regional elected representatives, including the mayor, will now determine whether the project should be approved. Should the committee endorse the proposal, it will then be evaluated by the state Gaming Facility Location Board, which holds the authority to make the final decision on awarding the gaming license.
Potential Conflict of Interest Concerns
It is noteworthy that Vito Pitta, the mayor’s campaign attorney, is also acting as a lobbyist for the Bally’s project. Additionally, Frank Carone, the mayor’s campaign chairman, has previously worked with the chairman of Bally’s, raising questions about political connections within the project’s promotion.
Opposition to the Casino Project
Bally’s casino proposal is strongly opposed by local Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato. She successfully influenced the City Council to reject the plan through a tradition called member deference, where the council tends to follow the lead of the local representative on zoning and land use issues within their district.
Criticism and Political Reactions
Councilwoman Marmorato labeled the casino plan as a “predatory development,” despite support from other Bronx officials. Meanwhile, City Council spokeswoman Mara Davis criticized Mayor Adams, stating that “the mayor’s words have no credibility,” and added that the Council will deliberate its future actions concerning the land use application.