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Editorial
Free speech reigns
at board meeting
For the fourth straight meeting, the town board heard the opponents of a proposed Seneca Nation of Indians-operated casino voice their protestations concerning its Cheektowaga location. Their voices were almost silenced last week when the town attorney suggested that the group’s complaints should not be directed at the town board, but rather at state and federal agencies. Supervisor Dennis H. Gabryszak granted the opponents their opportunity to speak, and we’re happy that he did.
While most of the opinions voiced by the anti-casino lobby were raised at earlier meetings, Tim Sherry of CONCERN, (Citizens Opposed to New Casinos in Established Residential Neighborhoods) offered some information that shed better light on why some Cheektowaga, Depew and Lancaster residents are against a possible Transit Road location.
Using maps of neighborhoods around three sites reported to be under consideration for the Seneca casino, Sherry highlighted the amount of land covered by residential properties within a 3,100-foot radius. The Transit Road location far and away had more residential properties than the two other sites, Sonwil Drive and the former Pfohl Brothers landfill. It was good information for both the town board and the public.
The session also allowed casino supporters to speak. One Cheektowaga resident pointed out that if a casino across the street from a school is bad, then perhaps stores and churches are bad for selling lottery tickets or hosting bingo nights. The resident didn’t mention that the school is also a few blocks away from a "gentlemen’s" nightclub. How much does that establishment affect school children?
Again, these points of view were good to hear. Voicing opinions in public provides an opportunity for more residents to hear both sides of any story. Although New York State’s Committee on Open Government notes that the law is silent on public participation at meetings, it advises that all persons be treated "in a like manner." No matter which side "wins" in the casino matter, Monday’s meeting was a victory for free speech and an informed public.
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