The New York legislature voted to grant more video lottery terminal revenue to Vernon Downs ahead of threats the harness track would close due to declining profits. Vernon Downs will now get at least $2 million from VLT revenue to offset the $150,000 owner Jeff Gural said he is losing per month on the track.

Vernon Downs is responsible for 300 jobs and more than $20 million in total tax revenue.

Gural estimated the move would help him break even. Gural released the following statement Thursday afternoon:

“I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of all of my employees, the many local businesses that rely on Vernon and me personally to thank Governor Andrew Cuomo for his support yesterday and today in getting the legislation we needed that would allow us to remain open.” 

“A special thank you to Senator Joe Griffo, who worked tirelessly in this effort and the Mohawk Nine, whose bipartisan support yesterday also made a difference.  In the Assembly my thanks going out to Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, who also worked extremely hard, along with Assemblyman Bill Magee and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo from Binghamton.”

“Thanks to this legislation we will not only continue to employ 300 people but will continue to provide education with between $11 million and $12 million annually and continue to pay $2 Million dollars in local taxes to the local communities.” 

“I remain committed to maintaining Vernon Downs as a local Mom & Pop type casino with horse racing, an affordable hotel and a great place to host weddings and meetings at our event center.  This is obviously a great way to begin the summer season and the upcoming holiday.”

“We expect to continue to give back to the local community as we have in the past.  For those of you in the area tomorrow we are hosting our annual charity concert featuring 38 Special.  As always, all of the ticket sales, plus an additional $10 for every ticket sold and $0.50 for every dollar raised by Food Bank of Central New York at the door will be donated to the Food Bank of Central New York.  On Saturday after the races we will be having our annual fireworks display.  Thanks again to everyone who insured the future of Vernon Downs.”