There's never been a drink of alcohol allowed on the gaming floor of Turning Stone Casino. But that may come to an end. The casino is teaming up with a Rome based company to supply spirits throughout the resort. But Doug ready, with the Upstate Citizens for Equality, known for their hard stance against the Oneidas, wants to make sure everyone gets a fair deal. "I question whether taxes will be paid or they'll come up with some half hearted negotiation," says Ready.
Turning Stone officials say this deal makes sense to them because in the past, they've had to apply for daily permits to allow the sale of alcohol. With this new deal, that goes away.
Turning Stone already serves alcohol in some of its restaurants and private events. The deal between CD Food and Beverage would expand drinking to the hotel, gaming floors and golf outings. Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente says it's a win for local government and business. Picente says, "It generates the revenue people were looking for on our end. For the Oneidas it protects their sovereignty they hold dear."
Picente says projected sales tax revenues were down more than 5 million last year. And as local governments pinch pennies, this is a way ease a burden on taxpayers. Picente says, "You are getting a couple things you had asked for. That is sales tax and regulatory issues regarding alcohol." But Doug Ready says, "They say the devil is in the details. I'll believe that when I see it."
The deal still has some hurdles to clear before customers can grab a drink anywhere on the grounds. The big one: approval from the State Liquor Authority.
