Residents oppose casino zoning changes near Nassau Coliseum and Hofstra University

The Hempstead Town Board meeting on June 10, 2025, was dominated by passionate opposition to a proposed casino at the Nassau Coliseum site. Community members voiced strong concerns over the potential zoning changes that could pave the way for the gambling facility, emphasizing the negative impact it could have on local neighborhoods and institutions.

One of the most vocal opponents, a speaker identified as Glenn, criticized the Sands Corporation for abandoning its initial plans for the area, which promised jobs and tax revenue. "They owe us nothing," he stated, urging the board to reject any zoning changes without a concrete plan in place. His remarks highlighted a growing frustration among residents regarding the lack of accountability from developers.

Ingrid Fabulous, a long-time Uniondale resident, echoed these sentiments, questioning the rationale behind placing a casino in a community that could benefit more from housing developments. "Why don't you think about building housing in that community?" she asked, advocating for solutions that would better serve local families.

Harvey Miller, another resident, presented alternative ideas for the site, suggesting a medical campus, cultural center, or clean energy hub instead of a casino. He argued that these options would provide long-term benefits without the social costs associated with gambling. "We should never sacrifice long-term neighborhood health for short-term revenue," he asserted.

John Carter, a former Hofstra University student, expressed deep concern about the casino's proximity to the university, stating it could compromise the integrity of the educational environment. "Hofstra deserves protection, not proximity to a facility that threatens its future," he said, reflecting a broader anxiety about the implications of such developments on local institutions.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's resistance to the casino proposal is rooted in a desire for sustainable development that prioritizes the well-being of residents over quick financial gains. The board's decision on the zoning change remains to be seen, but the voices of concerned citizens are making it clear that they will not back down easily.