The office of state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has highlighted the underperformance of all state-licensed casinos in meeting their gross gaming revenue projections in 2022. Furthermore, all but one casino failed to provide their full expected local government gaming taxes.
We understand the disappointment surrounding this issue. Many communities that heavily rely on upstate casinos as economic drivers will inevitably feel the impact when these establishments fall short.
It is even more concerning that the comptroller’s report raises concerns about market oversaturation. This comes at a time when state officials are preparing to issue three additional commercial casino licenses in downstate New York. The introduction of mobile sports betting and the potential allowance of iGaming could lead to these establishments cannibalizing one another.
Municipalities were banking on the success of these casinos. New York state needs to carefully consider its next steps. Every gambler knows that pushing one’s luck too far can result in bankruptcy.
Controversial Images
The city seal of Saratoga Springs depicts Indigenous people partaking in the historic springs, showcasing numerous problematic stereotypes and historical inaccuracies commonly found in old images. Many municipalities possess similar depictions on their emblems and flags. We hope that these anachronisms will eventually receive attention and undergo redesign.
A recent proposal to change the city seal sparked a reaction from Dillon Moran, Saratoga Springs’ commissioner of accounts. As the office responsible for the city seal, Moran dismissed the suggestion due to its source—an ex-city official named Robin Dalton, who he believes is attempting to cause trouble. He also deemed changing the seal as a low-priority matter.
We recognize that this issue may not be as pressing as other challenges faced by Saratoga Springs, such as racial tensions and policing. However, the state’s ongoing debate over mascots—resulting in the state Board of Regents mandating the retirement of Indigenous team names—indicates that the design of the city seal should also be considered a topic worthy of public debate.
Another reason to take the seal design seriously is how it ties into broader community issues, particularly in terms of representation and inclusion. While Mr. Moran may suggest that the proposal lacks credibility due to its source, he did acknowledge the need for respectful discussion and resolution of this controversial matter. All stakeholders should be allowed to express their opinions, except, seemingly, Ms. Dalton.
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