Legal Blow Halts $4bn Sands Casino Plan in Nassau County

A state judge has invalidated the Nassau County government’s approval of a 99-year lease agreement, dealing a severe blow to the proposed $4 billion casino complex at the Nassau Coliseum. 

Hofstra University Secures Legal Victory as Judge Nullifies Nassau Casino Lease

The judge’s decision, issued on November 9, not only voids the existing lease but also mandates that Nassau County planning officials restart the entire process, including new hearings with the county legislature. The ruling is seen as a significant victory for Hofstra University, whose campus is adjacent to the proposed casino site, and has been a vocal opponent of the development.

In a public statement, Hofstra President Susan Poser expressed gratitude for the court’s ruling. Poser highlighted the importance of public participation in decision-making and conveyed eagerness to contribute to the planning process while ensuring the community is protected from potential environmental risks.

The legal setback for the casino project comes just days after Mets owner Steve Cohen unveiled an $8 billion casino plan near Citi Field, intensifying the competition among gaming operators for coveted state licenses in the New York City metropolitan area, including Long Island.

Las Vegas Sands Stays Committed Amidst Legal Scrutiny of Nassau Casino Development

The judge specifically cited violations of both the Open Meetings Law and the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) in approving the lease transfer. 

While Nassau County has not issued an official statement in response to the court’s decision, Las Vegas Sands Corporation remains undeterred. In a statement, the company conveyed its dedication to the Nassau Hub project, asserting that Las Vegas Sands is moving forward with their proposal for an integrated resort and entertainment center at the Nassau Hub with pride and enthusiasm.

Judge Kapoor’s ruling orders Nassau County to conduct a comprehensive environmental review of the proposed casino development, emphasizing the failure of the county legislature to take a “hard look” at the Sands casino project beyond the technicalities of the lease transfer.Las Vegas Sands

revealed plans for the significant entertainment, hospitality, and casino complex on the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum site in Nassau County, western Long Island, New York back in January.

The multi-billion-dollar project, covering up to 80 acres, aims to offer a diverse range of amenities, including hotels, outdoor spaces, live performance venues, and celebrity chef restaurants. The company, committed to fostering economic growth and job creation, anticipates the resort to generate substantial tax revenue and provide new career opportunities for residents, emphasizing its transformative impact on the community.