Community Opposes Proposed Casino
During the recent Nassau County Legislature meeting, officials from the Village of Garden City and members of the grassroots organization Say No to the Casino passionately expressed their opposition to the Sands casino project.
Although Las Vegas Sands has publicly announced its withdrawal from the initiative, the Legislature proceeded with the release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Nassau County residents have until May 30th at 5:00 PM to provide feedback to [email protected]. Those who did not voice their opinions during the meeting may submit written comments ahead of the county legislators’ vote on the FEIS on June 23rd.
The FEIS is available in printed form at the Garden City Library and online at the following link: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/5774/Sands-FEIS
Zoning Changes to Allow Gambling
The Town of Hempstead has unexpectedly scheduled two public hearings for Tuesday, May 27th, at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, to discuss proposed zoning changes that would permit gambling at the Hub property. Residents are encouraged to attend these hearings at the Town Meeting Pavilion, 1 Washington St., Hempstead NY. The Town Clerk’s Office confirmed that no mailings will be sent to notify residents.
Voices of Opposition
At the County Legislature meeting regarding the FEIS, Garden City Mayor Ed Finneran criticized the decision, calling it hasty and groundless. He stated, “We are reviewing a massive FEIS for a project that currently has no sponsor, operator, or valid lease.” He noted that Las Vegas Sands, a prominent gaming company, had completely abandoned the site.
Former Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan pointed out that environmental studies highlight long-standing concerns about the project, emphasizing issues such as traffic, water usage, pollution, and crime. Trustee Rich Catalano also raised public safety concerns, referencing alarming statistics regarding deaths and injuries in the region.
Other local residents, including Monica Kiely, Lynn Krug, and Peggy Volz, urged legislators to reconsider the casino plans and focus on developments that benefit the community. Although the resolution for the FEIS passed unanimously, some legislators, including Olena Nicks and Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, clarified that their approval was aimed at ensuring transparency, not supporting a casino.
Uncertainty regarding potential operators remains, with Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton admitting she does not know the identity of any prospective developers. Mayor Finneran and the Say No to the Casino group are encouraging all residents to attend the hearings, as this is seen as a crucial moment for the community. “We need to show up and speak out before irreversible decisions are made,” expressed opponent Monica Kiely.
