Assemblyman Tom Alfano is calling on Governor David Paterson to consider allowing video lottery terminals (VLTs) in Belmont Park to help spur economic development.

"VLTs are not the secret formula to close the state's deficit. Rather, it is a key ingredient for economic development that will help us bring business, create jobs and reinvigorate our area. There is no question that we cannot tax ourselves out of a recession or close a deficit. We need to grow the local economy and create jobs," said Alfano.

In February, the New York Racing Authority (NYRA) reached an agreement with the state to continue operating thoroughbred horseracing at Belmont Park for the next 25 years. The agreement, however, did not include installing VLTs at Belmont, a move some local officials including Alfano and some residents lobbied for. The agreement included the opening up of VLTs at Aqueduct Raceway but not Belmont.

"In the weeks and months ahead, we can seize the moment and help our state, our communities and working families," said Alfano "We can start the process of cutting taxes through economic development at Belmont. We can create jobs. We can bring a hotel to the Belmont property. We can transform the area."

Recently, Governor Paterson announced that New York State is in a financial crisis as he urged local lawmakers to come up with ways to cut spending due, in part, to declining revenues.