NYC Making Way for Casino-Friendly Zoning Law Changes

Article by : Erik Gibbs Mar 12, 2024

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A zoning proposal facilitating the establishment of casinos in New York City is anticipated to reach the City Council later this month. If so, it will undoubtedly intensify the competition among contenders seeking to operate gambling establishments in and around the five boroughs.

The New York City Planning Commission is set to vote on the zoning amendment in the coming weeks, as confirmed by a representative from the Department of City Planning to various sources. Two sources familiar with the matter suggest that the plan is likely to gain approval at this stage, subsequently progressing to the Council for a final decision.

Introduced last year, the proposal aims to legalize the establishment of casinos in specific commercial and manufacturing zones for facilities holding a state-issued gaming license.

In a collaborative effort, the Adams administration and the Council agreed on this strategy before proceeding with the zoning amendment in the autumn.

In a joint statement, City Planning Director Dan Garodnick and Council Speaker Adrienne Adams highlighted the potential of casinos to generate jobs and economic prospects for New Yorkers.

They emphasized that the absence of a suitable mechanism in the city’s current land use regulations puts applicants at a disadvantage when it comes to reviewing casino siting.

Following the story’s release, Council Member Kristy Marmorato, holding a casino bid in her district, expressed her view that the plan is unlikely to gain traction. This sentiment is echoed by opposition from several community boards.

In a text message, Marmorato emphasized the importance of providing the city with an opportunity to secure all three downstate gaming licenses.

However, she insisted that community input on any proposed project is crucial. She considers a text amendment that bypasses the ULURP (Uniform Land Use Review Procedure) process a non-starter.

While the proposal enjoys support from the legislative body’s Speaker, Marmorato’s remarks hint at an impending challenge. As the formal process starts, at least nine bidders in New York City are expected to compete for three available downstate licenses.

State regulations mandate local zoning approvals before gaming commission consideration, potentially requiring each casino proposal to submit distinct land-use applications.

The citywide zoning plan aims to streamline this process, though certain bidders may still need site-specific land-use changes. Advisory committees appointed by political leaders will scrutinize all casino bids, requiring local support for progression.

Once the citywide zoning proposal reaches the Council, members with casino bids in their districts may face increased scrutiny.

Keith Powers supports the broader amendment, emphasizing the need for individual proposals to undergo a thorough community process. The stance of the remaining three members on the citywide zoning plan has yet to be disclosed.