Even when sides agree, there is disagreement in Atlantic City.
Hours after Republican state Sen. Vince Polistina announced that he is working with the Office of Legislative Services to continue the state Department of Community Affairs authority over Atlantic City for another 10 years, Atlantic County Democratic Chair Michael Suleiman questioned Polistina's motives.
The Municipal Stabilization and Recovery Act was originally enacted in 2016. It was renewed five years later, with it set to expire in December.
Polistina's draft legislation would renew the MSRA, which he said has been instrumental in allowing the state to play a vital role in Atlantic City’s day-to-day operations and in providing essential oversight and guidance to the local government
“With increased gaming competition from New York City and the ongoing desire by North Jersey legislators for gaming in North Jersey, it’s more important than ever that the state and city continue working together for the benefit of all residents,” he said.
But Suleiman questioned why Polistina is "suddenly so transparent," when he says an earlier bill looked to "disenfranchise voters and allow non-residents to serve on Atlantic City's governing body."
"For years, we've heard excuses about wanting to get this 'legislation right' before making it public," Suleiman said. "Why is Vince suddenly so transparent about a completely different piece of Atlantic City legislation five days before the gubernatorial election?"
The Democrat agrees that "we do need to plan for the long-term future of Atlantic City."
"That's why I was the first official to call for an extension of the partnership with the State of New Jersey a year and a half ago to keep the positive momentum in Atlantic City going," Suleiman said. "In the past 18 months, Senator Polistina has chosen to fight with Denny Levinson, Marty Small, and George Norcross instead of working on solutions with officials on both sides to make Atlantic City a better place."
Small did not respond to requests for comment.
A DCA spokeswoman said the agency does not comment on proposed legislation.
Earlier this week, Polistina also introduced two bills aimed at helping the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority retain a greater share of revenue generated by Atlantic City casinos.
The legislation would enable the CRDA to reinvest those funds into redevelopment projects and continue supporting both gaming and non-gaming businesses throughout the city.
“There are many pieces of legislation that are critical to the future success of Atlantic City,” he said. “Restoring funding to CRDA, extending the MSRA, and restructuring and extending the Casino PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) program, we will give the city every opportunity to thrive into 2026 and beyond.”
