REGION — Sen. John Bonacic and Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther responded positively to the distribution of revenue paid by casino applicants to the state. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on June 22 that $30.2 million was paid to 25 municipalities. Sullivan County and the Town of Thompson each received $2.5 million.

Gunther said the distribution of the funds was “proof positive that the nearly 40 years of work that went into getting gaming in New York were well worth it. As we continue to re-build our economy, this funding is welcome relief, and I am proud to have worked for over a decade to ensure the communities I represent get the support they need.”

Bonacic said, “Even before the three resorts are built, the Upstate New York Gaming and Economic Development Act of 2013 is paying dividends. I was proud to sponsor this bill, and work with my colleagues and the governor to get it passed, because I knew it would help our local governments economically. I have no doubt that when it is finally built, the Montreign Resort will be a top regional tourist destination in the Hudson Valley and Catskills.”

Cuomo said, “This funding will help counties and local governments provide essential services to their residents as well as work to reduce their tax burden.”