County Hearing To Resurrect Casino Talk For Nassau

GARDEN CITY, NY — While the Las Vegas Sands dropped out of contention for building a casino on the Nassau Coliseum grounds last month, it remains to be seen if bells will ring with slot machines anytime soon.

The first step is on Monday afternoon, when the County Legislature is scheduled to release its final environmental impact study. Lawmakers are also expected to vote whether to approve the study for the casino development.

"I am asking all residents, who are able, to attend the session.. and join us in opposing its passage," Garden City Mayor Edward Finneran.

The mayor joins groups, such as the Say No to the Casino, in opposition to the hotel property with gambling.

A rise in crime and lowering in property values are among the concerns that could negatively impact the quality of life in neighboring Garden City.

Finneran said having the casino would also hurt the underground water system, "its broader environs and our traffic."

With the Sands no longer pursuing a casino license from the state, "it is curious that this very important step in the licensing process is moving forward," Mayor Finneran said.

Regardless of the businesses that might be making a play for a casino deal in Nassau County, Finneran and Board of Trustees remain steadfast in unanimous opposition, "no matter what party attempts to move a casino project forward," the mayor said.

Finneran anticipates he'll speak out at the hearing on Monday.