Coney Islanders clash over proposed casino at first Community Advisory Committee hearing * Brooklyn Paper

"At 10 a.m. on Tuesday, as the first public hearing of the proposed Coney Island casino's Community Advisory Committee was set to begin, dozens of locals were still lined up on the sidewalk, waiting to enter Some shouted in protest as they were told not everyone would be able to speak or even enter the packed multipurpose room at the Coney Island YMCA. By the time the meeting began just before 10:30 a.m., nearly 90 people had registered to speak."

"The CAC consists of six members appointed by various state and city elected officials: Portia Henry, state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Marissa Solomon, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Alex Sommer, and Council Member Justin Brannan, the chair of the committee. The group must hold a vote on whether or not to approve The Coney's application by Sept. 30. Four or more members of the committee must vote yes in order for the application to advance to the Board."

"Many of the 32 people who voiced their support for the casino during Tuesday's hearing said the community is in desperate need of new jobs. "The Coney casino is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to return the People's Playground amusement district to its former glory as a year-round destination while simultaneously rejuvenating nearby disadvantaged communities," said Ron Greenberg, president of the 60th Precinct Community Council."

Dozens of locals lined up outside the Coney Island YMCA before the Community Advisory Committee's first public hearing on the proposed casino, and nearly 90 people registered to speak. Approximately 54 speakers opposed the casino while 32 supported it. The CAC includes six members appointed by state and city officials and must vote on The Coney's application by Sept. 30, requiring at least four affirmative votes to advance it to the board. Developers argue the casino would create year-round economic opportunities and thousands of jobs. Supporters say the project could rejuvenate Coney Island and nearby disadvantaged communities.

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