Bronx candidates clash over Bally's casino proposal at public forum

Candidates in two high-profile Bronx political races sparred over crime, housing and a proposed casino project at a public forum Wednesday night, with some calling for sweeping changes in borough leadership and others striking a more measured tone.

The forum, hosted by Bronx Times and Politics NY and streamed live by BronxNet, featured Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and challenger Rafael Salamanca Jr. in the first half, followed by a debate among Democratic hopefuls for City Council District 13.

Gibson, a Democrat seeking a second term as borough president, and Salamanca, a City Council member since 2016, stopped short of endorsing or opposing the proposed Bally’s Casino in Ferry Point, citing ongoing community feedback. Gibson said her office was reviewing the project’s potential $625 million in community benefits, while Salamanca noted the neighborhood was divided over the plan.

In the City Council District 13 portion of the event, candidates Shirley Aldebol, David A. Diaz and Joel Rivera shared their visions for the East Bronx.

Aldebol, a labor leader, emphasized her negotiating experience. “We need someone who can sit at the table and negotiate,” she said. “We are leaving money on the table.” She said she remained open to the casino plan but demanded more transparency and guarantees for the community.

Diaz warned against overdevelopment in the East Bronx. “We like our community… and we don’t want it to change,” he said, expressing current opposition to the casino, though acknowledging its potential to create jobs.

Rivera came out strongly against the Bally’s project. “The community has spoken and does not want it,” he said. While he credited Bally’s for financially assisting Preston High School, he said he remained wary of developers’ promises.

All three City Council candidates pledged to expand senior services and youth programming. They also voiced concern over the disproportionate placement of homeless shelters and drug treatment centers in the Bronx, calling for a more equitable distribution citywide.