No North Jersey casino referendum this year, Sweeney says

Sweeney said there is simply not enough time for extensive public discussion on the issue and a vote by the state Legislature to put a referendum on the November ballot.

"I would say at this point that time has run out, to be honest with you," Sweeney told The Press of Atlantic City after giving remarks to a state labor group.

Lawmakers would have to approve legislation by Aug. 3 to put a referendum on the November ballot. It would then be up to New Jersey voters to decide whether to amend the state constitution to expand casino gambling outside Atlantic City.

The issue has bitterly divided the state, with North Jersey politicians clamoring for the expansion of casino gambling amid predictions from pro-Atlantic City forces that more competition would severely harm the resort's gaming industry.

Sweeney, a South Jersey Democrat, maintained that such a volatile issue must be thoroughly debated before any decisions are made. He declined to say whether he will push for a referendum next year, although he has already indicated his support for North Jersey casinos if the tax revenue they generate helps to boost Atlantic City's redevelopment.

"We're going to have a public discussion," Sweeney said in an interview following his appearance at the New Jersey State Building and Construction Trades Council convention at Caesars Atlantic City.

North Jersey politicians have introduced legislation to allow as many as three casinos in Bergen, Essex and Hudson counties. The preferred location in Bergen County is the Meadowlands sports complex, where gaming giant Hard Rock International wants to develop a billion-dollar casino.

South Jersey officials believe a project of Hard Rock's stature would create too much in-state competition for Atlantic City while it is still struggling to recover from the closings of four casinos last year.

However, Sweeney's declaration that time has run out for a referendum this fall will give Atlantic City at least one more year to prepare for the possibility of North Jersey casinos.