Strengthening New York’s Gaming Oversight: New Appointments to Regulate Casino Licenses and Facility Locations

The New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) has announced the appointment of two new members to the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, a strategic move that could significantly accelerate the distribution of highly anticipated casino licenses for downstate locations. By adding new expertise to the board, the commission aims to streamline the complex evaluation process, paving the way for the formal awarding of these prestigious casino licenses to the most suitable gaming venues.

The newly appointed members are Marlon Phillips, III and Greg Reimers. Their additions bring the board’s total membership to five, joining Chair Vicki Been, Carlos Naudon, and Stuart Rabinowitz. This strengthened board will play a crucial role in recommending sites for the new casinos to the NYSGC.

About the New Board Members

Marlon Phillips, III

Marlon Phillips, III brings a wealth of experience in community development and DEI to the board. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President for Community Development, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at U.S. News & World Report. His previous roles at Empire State Development included significant involvement in major development projects like Queens West, Atlantic Yards, and the New York Empowerment Zone Corporation. This background is invaluable in assessing the community impact of potential casino sites.

Greg Reimers

Greg Reimers joins the board with extensive real estate expertise. He retired from JPMorgan Chase, where he held a senior position as a real estate banker. Prior to that, he served as an executive vice president at the Bank of New York, managing large teams providing commercial banking and real estate credit services. His deep understanding of real estate finance will be critical in evaluating the financial viability of proposed casino hotel locations.

The Role of the Gaming Facility Location Board

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board is tasked with a vital role in the casino siting process. While the New York State Gaming Commission ultimately makes the final decision on which groups will be awarded the licenses, the board provides crucial recommendations based on a variety of factors. These include:

• Crime considerations: Assessing the potential impact of a casino on local crime rates and public safety.
• Environmental impact: Evaluating the environmental consequences of developing a casino site.
• Traffic implications: Analyzing the potential increase in traffic congestion and infrastructure needs.
• Community feedback: Considering the concerns and opinions of local residents and businesses.

The process of awarding the three downstate casino permits has faced considerable challenges, including bureaucratic delays and scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest. Governor Kathy Hochul recently vetoed legislation aimed at accelerating the bidding timeline, suggesting that the winning bidders will likely be announced later this year.

There is widespread speculation that MGM Resorts International’s Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Resorts World New York in Queens are strong contenders for two of the licenses. This means that the remaining permit is likely to be contested by a smaller number of applicants. The board’s recommendations will significantly influence the final outcome.

Why These Appointments Matter

The NYSGC’s decision to appoint experienced professionals like Phillips and Reimers reflects the importance of a thorough and well-informed site selection process. Their expertise in community development and real estate, respectively, will help ensure that the chosen casino locations are not only economically viable but also beneficial to the communities they are situated in. Choosing the right location is paramount for the success of any casino venture.

Here’s a quick fact: The economic impact of a new casino can be substantial, bringing jobs and tax revenue to a region. However, careful planning and community engagement are essential to maximize these benefits and mitigate potential negative consequences.

Conclusion

The appointment of Marlon Phillips, III and Greg Reimers to the New York Gaming Facility Location Board is a significant step forward in the process of awarding the state’s first downstate casino licenses. Their diverse expertise will be invaluable as the board makes recommendations to the NYSGC, ultimately shaping the future of the gaming industry in New York. The focus on community impact and practical considerations highlights the commission’s commitment to responsible development. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.

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