New York: Hempstead approves zoning changes for casino development at Nassau Hub

The Town of Hempstead moved a step closer to bringing a casino to Nassau County on Tuesday as the zoning board approved zoning changes that would allow a hotel and gaming property to be built at the Nassau Hub.

The decision revives a controversial plan originally pitched by Las Vegas Sands, which signed a 99-year lease to build a high-end casino at the Nassau Coliseum. However, that deal was scrapped in April after Sands decided to exit the casino race for three downstate gambling licenses. A new 42-year agreement is now in place.

"Today’s vote by the Town Board is an important step in realizing the potential for sustainable and transformative development of the property at Nassau’s Hub," said Brian Devine, Town of Hempstead Director of Communications. "The Town Board’s action addresses outdated zoning that has limited the potential of this site.”

However, community opposition remains strong.

“Supervisor Don Clavin and the town board should resign from office before they are voted out by the groundswell of passionate, committed constituents who clearly care about our community exponentially more than they do," said Allison O'Brien Silva of Say No to the Casino Civic Association.

Silva and other critics argued that bringing a casino to the area could have serious consequences, including increased crime, higher property taxes, and a surge in gambling addiction.

"Say No members will not only continue to fight any and all predatory gambling companies that try to build at the Hub, but also any politicians who fight for the casinos,” she said.