Senate Committee Holds Public Hearing on the Future of Racing

McDonald: “Saratoga Racetrack Will Be Open for Business This Year.”

Albany – February 7, 2011 -  Senator Roy McDonald took part in today’s public hearing hosted by the Senate Committee on Racing, Wagering & Gaming, on the future of New York racing. McDonald emphasized the importance of working to ensure that the 2011 Saratoga racing meet is protected while also addressing the significance of returning VLT aid to Saratoga Springs & Saratoga County.

“What’s most important is that everyone throughout New York, and those beyond its borders, recognize that the Saratoga Racetrack will be open for business this year,” said McDonald. “We will work with industry leaders to make certain that the race meet, which is extremely important to the economy of Upstate, takes place this year.

McDonald cited how economically damaging the  stumbling blocks and non-stop headlines that occurred prior to the 2010 meet were, headlines which questioned if post-time would come on time to Saratoga.

McDonald also referenced the lost VLT aid that was taken away in 2009 and needs to be returned to the city and county.

“Our community puts a significant amount of effort into hosting a VLT facility, that effort results in expenses. It’s time the state recognizes the positive impact a safe, clean community plays into the success of these facilities and returns the aid that was taken away so it can be re-invested,” said McDonald.

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