On the heels of the deal reached between NYRA and the state, two state leaders introduced bills Thursday they say will help integrate Belmont racetrack with the surrounding communities.

The recently struck deal allows NYRA to run the tracks for the next 25 years. Video lottery terminals, seen by many as a potential source of revenue, were not included in the deal. However, that is one aspect the lawmakers are seeking to change.

A bill proposed by state Sen. Craig Johnson (D-Port Washington) calls for the creation of a 15-member Belmont advisory board, composed primarily of community members. Johnson says the board will ensure NYRA is being a ?good neighbor? to Elmont and Floral Park.

Assemblyman Thomas Alfano (R-Franklin Square) put forth a bill calling for a similar board, video lottery terminals and $20 million for economic development of surrounding areas. $6 million would go to schools, Alfano says.

Alfano says he has already debated the issue of video lottery terminals with House Speaker Sheldon Silver. Silver has not commented.

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