New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says talks are ongoing for Seneca Nation Casino
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) has rejected criticism of her office's negotiations with the Seneca Nation on a new three-tier tribal gaming treaty.
Hochul has recused himself from all government matters involving Buffalo-based gaming and hotel company Delaware Northern because her husband works there. William Hochul is senior vice president and general counsel for Delaware North.
The company manages the gaming and food and beverage operations of Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack Gaming in Farmington and Hamburg. Both video gaming venues are located in upstate New York, near the Seneca family's monopoly on Las Vegas-style casinos west of State Road 14 in the Finger Lakes.
Hochul signed an agreement in 2021 shortly after taking over from Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) saying she would not interfere in northern Delaware affairs. But with Seneca's revenue-sharing agreement set to expire in December, Hochul hired close associates to negotiate on her behalf.
Last month, Hochul's office and the Seneca Nation surprised many by announcing a new tribal gaming agreement. But after it was revealed that conditions included the tribe potentially allowing a Las Vegas-style resort casino to be built in Rochester, local and state officials accused the governor of not including them in such important negotiations.
The controversy resulted in the New York State Assembly refusing to pass a law authorizing Hochul to sign the Seneca Treaty, as required by the state constitution.
Discussion in progress
Hochul didn't comment on the Seneca Nation's casino discussions throughout the process, but the governor finally did comment late last week before the long holiday weekend. Hochul said she kept her word not to comment on tribal contracts.
“I withdrew from the beginning and delegated the responsibility of working with the Seneca family to them, and as far as I know, they wanted to keep it secret,” Hochul said during a visit to Rochester for the museum’s opening.
"The process will restart. There will be more communication and my team is looking forward to reaching an agreement that works for everyone. That's the status quo - but again, I was not involved in the negotiations, the timeline, nor the Get involved in discussing this with others.”
Seneca National Party Chairman Ricky Armstrong Sr. accused the governor of failing to hold discussions with relevant state lawmakers and local officials in Rochester after the state Legislature voted not to allow Hochul to approve the new deal. Armstrong believes Hochul intentionally ignored factors that could benefit Delaware North in his plan to delay the contract extension.
“The biggest beneficiary of this expiring agreement is Northern Delaware,” Armstrong said. “The nation is once again reminded that the interests of New York State’s Native people are secondary to corporate interests.”
Back to the drawing board
Although the Seneca Treaty was not ratified, Hochul said her office is working with the tribe again to find new terms that are mutually beneficial without causing the displeasure of Rochester or any other northern city.
“I have a great team working on this,” Hochul added. "I believe both sides are attracting the best talent to tackle this issue and I will continue to ensure we get a good outcome for everyone involved."
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Source: www.casino.org
