Western N.Y. cities hopeful key revenue sharing will be part of new casino compact
Western New York cities hope revenue sharing returns in a new casino compact as state and Seneca Nation negotiations continue.Summary
Negotiations between New York state and the Seneca Nation of Indians over a new gaming compact remain stalled, leaving Western New York cities that depend on casino revenue uncertain. The original 2002 compact, which provided the state with 25% of certain slot machine revenues, expired in 2023. The Seneca Nation says a tentative agreement in principle contains no revenue-sharing provision and could be sent to the state Legislature in the spring. For Salamanca, casino revenue makes up 30% of the operating budget, and Mayor Sandra Magiera warns of potential layoffs without it. Buffalo and Niagara Falls also rely on the funds, and the Niagara Falls City School District uses its share for programs and staffing. State leaders say negotiations are ongoing and discussing specific terms publicly is premature. Any agreement would require state legislative approval, and the Seneca Nation is seeking more market protections and economic opportunities in exchange for revenue sharing.
(Source：Spectrum News 1 | Buffalo)