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Video Lottery Terminals @ The Meadowlands Letter
Governor Richard J. Codey Dear Governor Codey: I would like to take this opportunity to address an item in the proposed 2006 budget that I find particularly troublesome. The proposal to place thousands of video lottery terminals (VLT) outside the borders of Atlantic City as a remedy to the State's current fiscal crisis is unacceptable. As President of the Southern New Jersey Development Council , I stand in firm opposition to this proposal and look forward to working with you and your administration towards having it eliminated. I do not have to tell you how important the casino industry is to the entire State of New Jersey; however, I should point out how important the casino industry is to South Jersey. In 2004, the industry generated $4.8 billion dollars in revenue and employed over 55,000 individuals, the majority of whom reside in the southern eight counties. The employment created and investment generated by this industry is a driving force behind the economic growth of the region. Robbing the southern half of the State from this catalyst for economic growth by allowing gaming outside the cities' boundaries would be a crime against the approximately 1.5 million residents of South Jersey. Also, my understanding of the New Jersey State Constitution strictly prohibits the operation of gaming houses outside of Atlantic City. While I understand your administration is contending that a VLT is different from a slot machine, I would strongly encourage your legal counsel to review, again, the constitutionality of this proposal without a ballot referendum. Governor Codey, the negative effects this proposal would create strongly outweigh the potential benefits. It is our hope that you will listen to the people or South Jersey and the long list of Legislative leaders in opposition to this plan and reconsider. Sincerely, Marlene Z. Asselta |
