I have an idea or two that might be of interest to Atlantic City
denizens and visitors. Some of these are in the form of a question.
It revolves around Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation. It
also balances some interests with the Horse Breeding and Racing
Industries.
It would be temporary, require minimal investment and leave most of
the land without new structures built upon it and the land would be
available for conversion to an alternate purpose at the end of the
lease or the expiration of the permit or license.
As it stands now, casino applicants must have a first class hotel
facility with a capacity of at least 500 roomsÂ…
Given the current economic climate and credit markets, would the CCC
be able to license the development of a Racetrack with Electronic
Gaming Devices (Slots) but without a hotel at Bader Field? What
enabling legislation or "executive proclamation" would be required
before a casino license could be granted?
What about the permissibility of operating slot devices as VLT's
(Video Lottery Terminals) at freestanding OTW/OTB simulcast
facilities?
Would the NJSEA be the sole owner or would private partners be
permitted? (For example, the municipality provides the land and the
NJSEA provides the buildings with an equitable division of the
revenues or profits.)
Is there any restriction on a government entity engaging in a profit
venture that may compete with private industry?
May the State grant itself an exemption and open up a casino or VLT/
casino partnership in Atlantic City? (For example, convert the A.C.
Boardwalk Hall or the A.C. Convention Center into a VLT parlor
administered by the NJ Lottery or NJSEA and have a private entity as
a partner to supervise the "live" house-banked table games.)
Would the CRDA (Casino Reinvestment and Development Authority) be
allowed to participate in the project as a source of funding?
Bill