New York City Council Rejects Bally's Bronx Casino Rezoning

The New York City Council voted overwhelmingly to reject the zoning changes needed for Bally’s proposed $4 billion casino project in the Bronx, effectively ending the bid. Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, who led the opposition, criticized the proposal as a “predatory development” that failed to meet community standards and described it as neither true economic development nor beneficial to housing or hospitals. Despite Bally’s offers to increase community benefits and allow Bronx residents to invest in the project, local opposition remained strong, citing concerns over trust and the project's impact. Bally’s CEO Soo Kim expressed disappointment, highlighting that the council's rejection was a critical setback given that land-use changes were a prerequisite for the project. The decision leaves seven other casino bids competing for three downstate New York licenses, with local leaders expressing concern that the Bronx is being left behind economically. The rejection demonstrates the influence of local council members on land-use matters, even against broader political support within the Bronx delegation.