By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Revived plans by the Seneca Nation of Indians to locate their third area casino in downtown Buffalo are being well received by city and county officials. The Senecas say they hope to zero in on a specific site by the end of the summer.
The Senecas are said to be reviewing several sites. They envision a complex that will eventually include a casino and a hotel. During an appearance in Buffalo yesterday, Governor Pataki said a downtown location is the right choice.
"I've always believed that was the best spot," Pataki said. "I hope they (the Senecas) can meet with the city and other appropriate officials and work out an agreement as to the site. We'll then be supportive."
Erie County Executive Joel Giambra is offering the Buffalo Convention Center as a potential site. Just two years ago, the Senecas began pursuing a Cheektowaga casino after Giambra took the convention center off the table. He now says he would be willing to consider it as long as provisions are made to keep the city in the convention business. Giambra said his change of heart is based on what he's hearing about the Seneca's plans.
"I think a casino properly situated with the right type of development could provide us with an opportunity to bring new dollars to this community," Giambra said.
Mayor Anthony Masiello says he wants to work with the Senecas on identifying a site that is mutually beneficial.
"I'm not going to get into our own parochial ideas," Masiello said. "I have my preferences. I'm sure the Senecas do, too."
But when pressed, Masiello said he does prefer either the Statler Tower or the Convention Center as the site of a downtown casino.