by Paul Post

New York Thoroughbred Breeders Inc. and the New York Racing Association are circulating an electronic petition urging Governor David Paterson to name an Aqueduct gaming operator soon.

Six groups have submitted bids, and Paterson says he hopes to make an announcement by August 1. The selection process, however, has been plagued by delays.

The petition originated with the NYTB, but NYRA distributed it via e-mail to more than 50,000 people on Monday.

"E-mail everyone you know; your vet your feed supplier, your blacksmith, your neighbors who don’t want to see the farm next door turned into a development, your local school which has had to cut essential programs because the state government has turned its back on VLT revenue," NYTB President Barry Ostrager said in an open letter to racing fans and Thoroughbred industry leaders.

"Tell these people to tell other people so that this becomes a genuine grass roots effort that touches everyone who loves these Thoroughbreds."

The state loses an estimated $300-million per year while the racino project remains in limbo.

"Nearly eight years ago state government approved legislation that would allow video gaming at Aqueduct," NYTB Executive Director Jeffrey Cannizzo said. "During the eight years of protracted negotiation, New York taxpayers have lost more than $2-billion in potential revenue. Now, with Wall Street in meltdown, sales tax revenues at historic lows, and a state deficit of staggering proportions, the continued delay in rebidding the VLT proposal is shocking."
 
The petition may be viewed here.

Paul Post is a New York-based Thoroughbred Times correspondent