"As a former member of the City Council, I had the distinct honor of representing Coney Island, working alongside Mayor Mike Bloomberg to secure the 2010 rezoning of the community. From the very beginning, our vision was clear: Coney Island should be more than just a seasonal attraction. We envisioned a year-round destination, a vibrant hub with hotels, entertainment venues, and abundant economic opportunities for the community it serves."
"Having been in a position to shape policy and understand the community's needs firsthand, I understand the difficult decisions elected officials now face regarding the proposed entertainment center and casino. These choices are never easy; they carry the power to shape the future of an entire community. I vividly recall sitting through countless hours of public hearings, where voices opposed to the rezoning were loud and persistent."
"Back then, I walked the streets, met with religious leaders, and spoke to countless residents, listening to their hopes and concerns. Today, I continue to hear a consistent message from the community: they want change. They want jobs, economic investment, public safety, and opportunities for their families. Coney Island currently suffers from a staggering 17% unemployment rate. What better way to address this critical issue than by welcoming a world-class entertainment venue that includes a casino?"
A former City Council member who helped secure the 2010 rezoning presents a vision of Coney Island as a year-round destination with hotels, entertainment, and economic opportunity. The proposed entertainment center and casino are framed as difficult but consequential decisions capable of shaping the neighborhood's future. Public hearings previously included loud opposition, some from non-residents, while many local residents expressed support for change. The community wants jobs, investment, public safety, and family opportunities. With a 17% unemployment rate, the project is presented as promising thousands of jobs with priority for local residents and long-term transformative growth.
Read at New York Daily News
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