By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Mayor Anthony Masiello says with a newly elected Seneca Nation of Indian president, there will be renewed talks to bring a casino to Buffalo.
Mayor Masiello says he spoke to Barry Snyder, Sr. Wednesday morning following Snyder's election win. He says once Snyder is officially sworn-in as the new Seneca leader, they plan to meet to begin talks about casino gaming in Buffalo.
The issue has been dormant since the Seneca Tribal Council decided to build a casino in Cheektowaga instead of the City. But Snyder is willing to re-examine the issue. Masiello says they both agree that they want to do what is in the best interest of the city and Seneca Nation.
"Now that the elections are behind us, I think we all have to be responsible and work in the best interest of our constituency and stakeholders," Masiello said. "I'm confident that Barry Snyder, Tony Masiello and the other stakeholders will be able to come to a favorable agreement."
The Senecas walked away from past negotiations with the city after failing to obtain the Buffalo Convention Center for a downtown casino. But Masiello says Snyder is an astute business man and understands the significant economic impact of casino gaming, especially in Buffalo. He says they're ready to look to the future.
"We can't reflect on the past. We need to be strong together for the future," Masiello said. "He agreed and I'm confident we can work something out."
Masiello says he believes Snyder is serious about doing business in Buffalo and look forwards to future talks with the new Seneca leader.