STERLING FOREST, NY — Former New York State Gov. George Pataki said in a statement issued on November 21 that he is opposed to a plan for a casino to be constructed in Sterling Forest in Orange County, which is the proposal put forward by Genting Inc., and is the largest of the 16 projects seeking one of four casino licenses to be awarded soon.

Pataki wrote, “Throughout my 12 years as governor, one of my highest priorities was the preservation of open space and New York’s unique natural treasures. Working with environmental groups, federal, state and local leaders we protected over million acres for the enjoyment of future generations. One of the earliest and most important priorities of my administration was the protection of Sterling Forest.”

“A license granted to a casino in Sterling Forest would undo the bipartisan efforts that created Sterling Forest and most importantly create an unacceptable risk to New York and New Jersey’s drinking water. As I wrote in 1995, ‘the potential destruction of a watershed and outdoor recreational area for some 26 million people who live within two hours of Sterling Forest is much too high a price.’ The argument is the same today. No amount of tax revenue, licensing fees or pledges of community support can offset the risks this project poses to our state.”