In reaction to New Jersey Governor, Chris Christie’s, speech regarding the future of Atlantic City and New Jersey’s casino and gaming industry, Democrats in the state’s assembly planned a one day summit for August to flush out the ideas proposed by the governor and what that would mean for the state. The Governor’s plan is bold. It calls for a public-private partnership to create and oversee a “tourism district” in Atlantic City. This district would take charge of revitalizing the casino resort town. They would lure new investors and possibly make Atlantic City more family friendly. However, it also called for the closing of two state run race tracks, Monmouth Park and Meadowlands, and diverting the money to Atlantic City.
Senator Jim Whelan stated, “We don’t know the substance yet of what’s being proposed, but that’s where I think the summit should have a role.” Now Democrats are saying that the proposed summit will no longer be a one day event but a series of hearings across the state. This has frustrated some Republicans who want to see the bill for gambling fast tracked. “We need to take a close look at this report, dig into the details and fill in the blanks where needed,” stated Assemblyman John Burzichelli who went on to say that the governor’s plan left some unasnwered questions.
Governor Christie has promised to listen to all sides, but has also set a deadline of July 1, 2011 to get his bill through the Assembly and to his desk to be signed. Organizers of the summit are saying that it should be them and the legislature that brings the bill to life for the good of all of New Jersey and not staff members from the governor’s office. For the most part, though, the Governor’s plan is being met with applause. Everyone knows that something has to be done with both Atlantic City and her casinos and the racing and gaming industry.
