$600-million Monticello casino 'close to approval'

2007-02-06 13:00:23

The Mohawks and Empire Resorts could be opening a new Monticello casino in New York, if they receive approval from the Governor of the city.

Planned development will cost around $600 million but some critics are sceptical as the site is located about 450 miles away from the tribe's reservation.

Although environmental approval has already been granted for the site, there is still some way to go before full permission is granted.

However, a spokeswoman from the Governor's office told the Pocono Record that the situation looks hopeful.

"There are negotiations going on and, if I were to characterize them, I would say we are optimistic," the governor's spokeswoman said to the paper.

"I can tell you that the governor believes that casinos can play a role in economic development. I wouldn't say it is months out. I would say less than weeks."

If Gov. Eliot Spitzer agrees with the environmental findings, he will still need to negotiate a financial deal for a share in the profits of the casino, before the case goes to the Department of the Interior.


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