New York Gaming Facility Location Board: Recent Changes and Future of Casino Licenses

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB), a crucial body responsible for determining the locations of casinos in downstate New York, is currently undergoing a period of change. The board, composed of five members, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of gaming in the state. This article explores recent member changes, the board’s responsibilities, and the upcoming decisions regarding the allocation of three valuable casino licenses.

Recent Appointments to the GFLB

The board recently welcomed Terryl Brown, the vice president and general counsel at Pace University. Her appointment was unanimously approved by the New York State Gaming Commission, following the abrupt resignation of former Ponce Bank CEO Carlos Naudon in February 2024. Ms. Brown brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as deputy commissioner of legal affairs for the New York City Fire Department. As a member of the GFLB, alongside Chair Vicki Been and board members Marion Phillips, III, Stuart Rabinowitz, and Greg Reimers, she will be instrumental in evaluating proposals for the three casino licenses slated for New York’s downstate region.

This isn’t an isolated incident. Quenia Abreu, president of the New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce, also resigned from the GFLB in November 2024. Her departure was quickly followed by the appointment of Marion Phillips III, an executive at U.S. News & World Report, to fill the vacancy. Additionally, Greg Reimers, a former executive at JPMorgan Chase, took over a seat that had been vacant since 2023.

The Significance of the GFLB’s Role

The decisions made by the New York Gaming Facility Location Board have far-reaching implications for the state’s economy and communities. Each of the three casino licenses carries a significant $500 million fee, representing a substantial investment in the state. The board’s responsibility extends beyond mere location selection; they must carefully consider factors such as economic impact, community benefits, and responsible gaming initiatives.

Key Responsibilities of the GFLB

• Site Selection: Determining the optimal locations for the three casinos within New York’s downstate region.
• Economic Impact Assessment: Evaluating the potential economic benefits, including job creation and tax revenue generation.
• Community Benefits: Ensuring that casino developments provide tangible benefits to the surrounding communities.
• Responsible Gaming: Establishing guidelines and regulations to promote responsible gambling practices.

Eligibility Criteria for GFLB Members

To ensure impartiality and expertise, GFLB members must meet specific criteria. They must be residents of New York with at least 10 years of experience in fields such as accounting, finance, economics, commercial real estate, or in an executive capacity within a large organization. Crucially, board members are prohibited from having close relationships with individuals in the gaming industry or holding financial interests in gaming companies or their affiliates. This stringent requirement aims to maintain public trust and integrity throughout the licensing process.

Timeline for License Allocation

The GFLB is anticipated to commence reviewing applications for the three casino concessions in the near future. A decision regarding the allocation of these licenses is expected before December 1, 2025. This timeline underscores the importance of the board’s ongoing work and the anticipation surrounding this significant development for New York.

The composition of the GFLB has evolved since its inception in 2014, with previous members including prominent figures like Paul Francis, Dennis Glazier, Kevin Law, and William Thompson. The current changes reflect the dynamic nature of the board’s responsibilities and the ongoing process of selecting locations for these major gaming ventures.

Conclusion

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board remains a vital institution in shaping the future of gaming in the state. Recent member changes highlight the ongoing work required to oversee the allocation of the three casino licenses, each representing a significant economic investment for New York. The board’s commitment to expertise, impartiality, and responsible decision-making will be crucial as they move forward with the application review process, aiming for a decision before the end of 2025.

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