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MGM Empire City secures unanimous local backing for New York casino licence bid

A major milestone for MGM’s downstate casino ambitions. With local approval locked in, the real test—state scrutiny—now begins.

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1 min read
In this picture we can see the yellow building in the front. In the front bottom side there are...
In this picture we can see the yellow building in the front. In the front bottom side there are some shop and naming board on white "Metro" is written.

MGM Empire City secures unanimous local backing for New York casino licence bid

MGM Empire City has received a significant boost in its bid for a full casino licence in New York. The community advisory committee (CAC) has unanimously backed the project, marking the first downstate applicant to secure local news. MGM must now navigate the next stage of the licensing process, which includes a $1 million application fee and a thorough review by the Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB).

The GFLB, led by former Deputy Mayor Vicki Been and comprising five members, will scrutinise MGM's proposal across four weighted categories: Economic Activity & Business Development (70%), Local Impact/Siting (10%), Workforce Enhancement (10%), and Diversity Framework (10%). MGM has already demonstrated local support with its unanimous CAC backing, and it is expected to match current video lottery terminal (VLT) rates while maintaining horse racing purse contributions.

MGM's committee accepted bidder amendments submitted on 17 September after a week of deliberation, indicating a willingness to engage with community news. The GFLB's primary consideration will be the projected revenue impact, assessing how MGM's casino proposal would affect existing and potential new facilities. Other applicants, including Bally's Bronx and projects in Coney Island, Resorts World, and Metropolitan Park, are still in the process of addressing committee requests or have yet to submit changes.

MGM Empire City's unanimous local support and acceptance of bidder amendments have positioned it favourably in the licensing process. As it advances to the next stage, paying a $1 million application fee, MGM will face a comprehensive review by the GFLB. The board's decision, based on the weighted categories and projected revenue impact, will significantly shape the future of New York's gaming landscape.

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