Navigating the New York Casino Licensing Journey
The pursuit of casino licenses in downstate New York has recently taken a significant step forward as the community advisory committee (CAC) process kicks off. This phase introduces an intricate layer to an already complex endeavor, showcasing the intersection between high-stakes development and local governance.
The Latest Developments
Emerging from the shadows are two prominent proposals vying for attention in Manhattan: Avenir, backed by Silverstein Properties, and Freedom Plaza, proposed by Soloviev Group. Both CACs held their initial meetings this week, with Avenir presenting first followed by Freedom Plaza.
These gatherings reveal a fascinating dynamic: influential executives from expansive development and hospitality firms find themselves presenting multimillion-dollar ideas to committees largely composed of mid-level government officials. The power of these advisory bodies looms large, as they can determine which projects move forward based on a two-thirds majority vote—though this vote is expected to represent community opinion rather than personal biases.
Understanding the CAC Process
Ceremonial in nature, these organizational meetings were essential. They involved selecting committee chairs and laying out the procedural expectations for the months ahead. Each CAC is set to engage in public hearings aimed at collecting local input, with tentative timelines suggested for the first two hearings. Although these timelines are flexible, they outline a clear path toward final voting.
The process also provides an opportunity for bidders to refine their proposals based on feedback from CAC members, although any modifications impacting environmental assessments are off the table. Importantly, ethics guidelines prohibit CAC members from contacting bidders outside their formal roles, emphasizing the integrity of the process.
A Closer Look at Avenir
During the Avenir CAC’s inaugural meeting, Matthew Tighe was elected as chair, albeit virtually. Presentations from Silverstein’s COO, Dino Fusco, and CMO, Dara McQuillan, highlighted the firm’s experience, particularly in large-scale urban redevelopment projects, including the World Trade Center. They emphasized the crucial economic role Manhattan plays in New York City, arguing that a casino license awarded to a Manhattan proposal would invariably outperform ventures in other boroughs.
Rush Street Gaming’s CEO, Tim Drekhoff, also joined the presentation, discussing the potential intricacies of developing Avenir, and noting that the project represents a significant step beyond their existing regional properties.
Freedom Plaza’s Vision
Conversely, the Freedom Plaza proposal, chaired by Sandra McKee, adopted a more philosophical approach, emphasizing broader themes of democracy and community resilience. CEO Michael Hershman framed the project as not just a commercial enterprise but as a celebration of American values, with plans for a Museum of Freedom and Democracy.
Mohegan Gaming’s CEO, Ray Pineault, reinforced the idea of global competition, aiming to position Freedom Plaza among the premier gaming destinations worldwide. However, Mohegan’s recent challenges with other properties illustrate the volatile nature of the casino industry, making their plans all the more critical in the current landscape.
What Lies Ahead
As these processes unfold, the path to a casino in downstate New York becomes increasingly nuanced. Each CAC meeting not only assesses the proposals but also acts as a barometer of public sentiment toward such ambitious projects. The coming months will be pivotal, as the committees engage with the community and evaluate the impacts that these projects will have on their neighborhoods. Only time will tell which proposal will ultimately pave the way for a new chapter in New York’s vibrant landscape.