NYC Mayor Vetoes Council, Bronx Casino Bid Advances

Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the New York City Council's rejection of a zoning change needed for Bally’s to pursue a $4 billion casino project at the former Trump-operated Ferry Point golf course in the Bronx. Adams argued that blocking the project unfairly disadvantages the Bronx in the competition for one of three state casino licenses expected to be awarded later this year. The Council, with opposition led by local member Kristy Marmorato and Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, criticized the veto as hypocritical and pointed to the mayor's ties to Bally’s lobbyists and past land use controversies. The Council now has ten days to attempt an override, which would require a two-thirds majority. If Adams' veto stands, Bally’s remains in the running alongside proposals from Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. The debate highlights tensions over local opposition, economic development, and citywide land use policies.