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Atlantic County commissioners adopt resolution opposing expansion of casino gaming into North Jersey
Summary
Commissioners approved Resolution 253 opposing North Jersey casino expansion, citing potential diversion of customers, jobs and tax revenue from Atlantic County; sponsors and several commissioners urged early action, and the measure passed on a roll-call vote.
Atlantic County commissioners voted to adopt a commissioner-sponsored resolution opposing expansion of casino gaming into North Jersey.
The clerk read Resolution 253, which the transcript lists as sponsored by Richard R Days and June Burns. During discussion, a commissioner who identified themself as employed by casinos asked whether they should refrain from voting; the board proceeded to consider the motion. Commissioners argued the expansion could divert customers, jobs and tax revenue from Atlantic County’s hospitality economy. One commissioner cited a letter from Verlina Selte of the Southern New Jersey Development Council urging the board to oppose North Jersey casinos and warned of negative local impacts.
A sponsor said the county should act early because the idea of new casinos in North Jersey has been raised by state-level figures and might be subject to a referendum; the sponsor argued prior voter decisions favored Atlantic City-only gaming and the county must protect its economic base. The resolution was moved, seconded and adopted by roll call.
The transcript records unanimous affirmative responses during the roll call. The resolution directs the county to publicly oppose expansion of casino gaming into North Jersey; the transcript does not include formal legal text or the solicitor’s written opinion at the time of the vote.
