ATLANTIC CITY — Over objections from Atlantic City’s governing body, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority approved a plan that puts a big chunk of the city under its zoning and planning control for a new tourism district aimed at revitalizing the ailing casino resort.
The three city council members who addressed the
"It’s important to have a partnership to promote Atlantic City any way we can,’’ said Councilman Marty Small. "But it’s the confidence level of the residents that this is a dupe to take over Atlantic City."
Mayor Lorenzo Langford was the only one of the 16 members present to reject the proposal.
Minutes before that vote, the board shot down Langford’s suggestion to remove Bader Field, a 142-acre former municipal airport owned by the city, from the tourism district. Langford said he worried CRDA and state officials would have complete control over what eventually is developed on the parcel.
"It goes to the fundamental right of self-governance," he said. "There is a feeling that part of (the legislation) is about seizing control of the assets of Atlantic City."
The new tourism district encompasses nearly half the city. It primarily stretches the full length of the boardwalk to the city’s border with Ventnor on the southern end and wrapping around to the historic Gardner’s Basin and the Marina District on its northeast border with Brigantine. It also includes major arteries leading to the city’s casino district.
The zone runs inland to Atlantic Avenue but pushes deeper into the city to encompass its upscale shopping district know as The Walk continuing to the new convention center.
Under the arrangement, CRDA would take over the planning and zoning of parcels in the district. The city would continue to manage the parcels it owns and receive the proceeds of the municipal-owned land it sells.
Previous coverage:
• Casino Reinvestment Development Authority to contribute $1M to rid Atlantic City of eyesores
• Director of Casino Reinvestment Development Authority steps down
• Gov. Christie signs legislation establishing Atlantic City Tourism District
• Atlantic City officials blast legislators' plan to expand CRDA powers
• Editorial: Keeping Casino Reinvestment Development Authority funds in Atlantic City makes sense
• Atlantic City agrees to state control over finances
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