The State Lottery is threatening to yank video lottery terminals from Batavia Downs Casino over management issues, the D&C reports.
The D&C story lists four areas of concern:
- debt transactions without Lottery approval
- not providing minutes of board meetings
- not submitting salary reports
- discrepancies over capital expenses
The D&C reports that Western OTB President Martin Basinait declined comment on the State Lottery letter.
Sounds like a Palace Coup at
Sounds like a Palace Coup at the top.
Shut the dump down!!!
Shut the dump down!!!
just like New York State,
just like New York State, shut down a job making machine. Regardless of your personal view of Batavia Downs, that place is one of the top performers in the State when it comes to video lottery. This means that there are alot of people who are coming to Batavia to spend their money. This is not a time to take jobs away from Batavia or Western New York. The Downs has also infused the local area with alot of money in recent years and, along with Batavia's attempt at fiscal restraint, is one of the main reasons Batavia is out of their financial hole.
The future of Batavia Downs is bright as well, and could lead to bigger attractions, they've talked about adding a hotel to their properties. When more people come to this area, more small business opportunities are created.
If Batavia Downs is shut down this would be a huge blow to the local area, I don't see another business coming in that would generate hundreds of thousands of dollars in profit sharing (taxes).
Well put, Philip.
Well put, Philip.
I'll agree with Phillip, but
I'll agree with Phillip, but it IS important that the board start doing business the way they're supposed to. A story the other day mentioned that the current leadership on the BoD is being challenged because they have a tendency to suspend the rules.
Ignoring the requirement to make meeting minutes public, strange accounting practices when it comes to salaries and gaps in expense reports will raise the alarm bells with just about any auditor.
Just a few years ago the Downs had a date with the wrecking crew and they've come a long way from there. The folks who made it happen don't get to rest on their laurels though and the rules are the rules.
It seems that all the WROTB
It seems that all the WROTB has to do is follow the rules, and they stay open. What is so hard about them doing what they were required to do?
Bet dimes to dollars, they agree to shape up and this all goes away fast.
I don't see the problem
I don't see the problem either, follow the rules. What is so hard about that. Unless, they are trying to hide something.
Very interesting story.
Very interesting story. Looking forward to seeing what happens over the next few weeks.
The State Lottery isn't going to shut down the Downs. The Downs brings in too much money in the form of taxes for the state. Whether it be a change in the Downs Board and Management or a "new plan" by the current Board and Management, don't plan on the doors closing.