Here & There Column 11-5-13

Place Your Bets Folks

  The Roulette Wheel is spinning and sometime this evening it will be determined if New York voters have supported an estimated 10,000 new NY jobs, an increase aid in every NY school district, and efforts to provide property tax relief by the passage of the referendum to legalize non-Indian casinos in New York State.

  At stake locally is the long-sought-after casinos, possibly one at the former Concord Hotel site, one could land at the former Grossinger Hotel property and one could go to the former Nevele Hotel near Ellenville......all speculation at this point.

  Casinos could have a tremendous effect on the area's present economic conditions and unemployment rates both in Sullivan and Ulster County's.

  Casino gambling would have a direct effect on revenues that are leaving New York.

  Gambling, although not totally supported by everyone, is and has been a part of our society for many years. It brings negatives and positives when discussing what is best for society. 

  The State of New York and the County of Sullivan is in desperate need of increased new revenue and there definitely would be job creation both in the construction stage and permanent full time jobs after a casino is in operation.

  Some are calling this referendum as very close while others see it passing.

  While reading this column and if you have not voted yet consider what casino's could bring to the table.....but don't forget if the referendum is approved it will be important to hold those responsible to bring forth those promised new jobs, additional revenue and hopefully a new Sullivan County tourism resort area.