Tensions were high at Tuesday's public hearing in Throgs Neck, which marked the final meeting before a committee decides whether or not to move forward with bringing a casino to the borough.   

Dozens of people made their voices heard both froth and against the proposed to build a Bally’s casino. 

“It’s going to bring a lot of jobs, and it’s going to help our community,” said 85-year-old Angela Dipalo. “I’m from the senior center; and it will help the seniors go a short distance for entertainment, which is well needed in this area.”   

Others are concerned that a casino would attract traffic, potential crime and an impact on home evaluation. 

“We have to suffer the consequences,” said Joanne Signorini. “We love this neighborhood. We don’t want a big casino. My father worked three jobs to get a home, now the value of our homes is going to go down.” 

Last month, Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the City Council's decision not to allow part of Ferry Point Park to be rezoned for commercial use. That was a necessary step for the casino to move forward, and the city council speaker let that veto stand. 

The Community Advisory Committee has until the end of the month to vote on the project. Then, the state Gaming Commission will award up to three new casino licenses by the end of the year. Bally's is just one of eight projects battling for those licenses.