Story Created:
May 18, 2009 at 9:45 PM EST
Story Updated:
May 19, 2009 at 8:41 AM EST
VERONA, N.Y. (WKTV) - A public hearing held Monday night at VVS High School in Verona led to some very familiar views on both sides of the issue.
It was a chance for Oneida County Legislators to hear what the public has to say about the proposed deal before they vote on it.
Both Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente and Oneida Indian Nation CEO Ray Halbritter each had rock star like entrances, standing ovations, and roaring applause, but not all of the speakers were applauding the deal struck between the two. Jason Merrill, a social studies teacher from Sherrill said, "I have taken the time to read the proposed agreement between the County Executive and the Oneida Indian Nation and I find its reasoning's heavily flawed and incomplete. What happens after this agreement runs out in ten years? Will there be more money given to the school districts or municipalities? This is a shot term solution to a long term problem."
The 900 seat auditorium was more than half full, but only a few dozen signed up to speak. Wayne Peter, a Turning Stone employee said "the growth and success of Turning Stone has come with much hard work and determination, from all 5000 employees." That was followed by a loud roar of many fellow Oneida nation employees in attendance.
A majority of those who spoke in favor of the plan were employees of the Oneida Nation. Many were bussed over from the nearby casino to avoid parking problems, and were wearing matching buttons and tee-shirts saying "it's time to move forward together."
Nation C-E-O Ray Halbritter did add one thing new during his speech to the audience. He told those in attendance if the plan passes, he can guarantee the nation will create 1000 new jobs within five years of the agreement.
Those who spoke against the plan are hoping Oneida County legislators vote down the proposed agreement.
Oneida County legislators are expected to vote on the issue next Wednesday, May 20th.
If it passes, the State of New York has until June 30th to finalize all of its issues, or the deal is null and void, even though it passed here in Oneida County.
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