Long Island residents voice opposition to proposed casino-style gambling parlor

About one thousand Long Islanders packed a meeting to oppose a plan to build a casino-style gambling parlor in Westbury.

Westbury and Carole Place residents and about two dozen elected officials argued that the proposed project would increase traffic on Old Country Road, spur crime and bring down property values.

The site of the proposed casino in a vacant Fortunoff Building is half-mile from 1,200 homes and less than a mile from three schools.

Newsday (http://nwsdy.li/1CuY4Bh ) says Westbury Mayor Peter Cavallaro said if OTB doesn't find another site, he'll file a lawsuit.

Suggested alternate locations included the Nassau Coliseum and Belmont Park racetrack.

The Nassau OTB says it will address the community's concerns. It says the casino would create 200 jobs and generate $150 million in annual revenue.

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Information from: Newsday, http://www.newsday.com