HAMBURG, N.Y. (WKBW) — An online petition has been started in Hamburg protesting a proposal in Governor Cuomo's proposed Executive Budget, which would end Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) Aid for municipalities outside the City of Yonkers.
VLT Aid is money paid by NYS to communities that host a "racino" casino with video terminals for gambling. It comes from the revenue generated by the video terminals that is paid to the state.
The petition states:
"We, the undersigned, Residents and Taxpayers of the Town of Hamburg strongly protest the proposed elimination of Video Lottery Terminal appropriations for the Town of Hamburg.
Our Town is challenged with a struggling commercial property tax base, and significant infrastructure expenses that we must incur. The loss of almost $866,000 of annual fees is a significant blow to all of us, as hardworking and decent people who strive every day to do the right thing.
Governor Cuomo, restore the money without further delay.
Please include your name and address in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Supervisor James Shaw"
The petition can be viewed here and has over 600 signatures as of around 10 p.m. Monday.
