Press release:
Due to the recent expansion of gaming in Western New York and the lack of tax parity amongst gaming entities, WROTB/Batavia Downs Gaming could potentially lose in upwards of 100 jobs in Western New York. WROTB/Batavia Downs Gaming currently employs more than 500 hardworking Western New Yorkers throughout 15 counties and two cities.
A bill that would create ‘tax parity” appears to be logjammed in the budget process. If a concession is not made, there would be devastating effects to the local economy as WROTB has returned more than $226 million to local governments, purchased more than $480 million in local goods and services, and is one of the largest employers in Genesee County.
Having created new state casinos and a hypersensitive business environment without leveling the playing field, potentially means job cuts here and additional loss for horsemen through Central and Western New York.
“We have been working diligently with state officials to create a stable plan for tax parity and are very hopeful this can be accomplished in the state budget,” said Mike Nolan, chief operating officer at Batavia Downs Gaming. “Other facilities have fewer restrictions placed on them. With new gaming competitors entering the market, we are looking to be on a level playing field.
"We want to continue to make facility improvements, satisfy our patrons and continue to provide employment to hundreds of employees that rely on these jobs to provide for their families. We urge our representatives in the Assembly, Senate and in the Governor’s office to give our employees the peace of mind that tax parity will ensure the solvency of our corporation moving forward.”
Mr. Nolan, the homeowner
Mr. Nolan, the homeowner property and school tax payer would like to see a level playing field too. You see we have to pick up the slack when corporate welfare is handed out. Darien lake, the airport, dick's sporting goods, Batavia downs to name a few. This is New York where they pick and choose who pays and who doesn't, we're not going to see anything level but with your threats of job loss maybe you will. As far as I am concerned you go right ahead and hand out the 100 pink slips for I am sick of paying while the rich corporations slide.
Minimum wage and minimum hour
Minimum wage and minimum hour jobs! This will probably cancel out the building of the paddock or anything else on the backside again. They have only returned $226 million of the gambler`s money, not their own! They rob the people and then try to act like they are giving money to the area.