Reviving the 99-H Revenue-Sharing Agreement: Niagara County’s Urgent Call

In a bold move to secure local funding from casino revenues, Niagara County’s federal legislators have ramped up their efforts to renew the **99-H revenue-sharing agreement**. This critical arrangement, which last provided substantial financial support to essential public services, expired at the end of 2023, leaving a funding void that threatens local institutions.

Key Points

• The **99-H agreement** allowed 25% of slot machine revenues from Seneca Nation casinos to fund local projects.
• Local leaders are pushing hard for legislation to reinstate funding for schools, hospitals, and essential services.
• Proposed changes aim to have Niagara Falls retain **80%** of casino revenue while distributing the rest among local organizations.

What’s At Stake?

Without renewal, essential services and projects funded by these revenues face severe cutbacks. During a press conference held at the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, **State Sen. Minority Leader Rob Ortt** and **State Assemblyman Angelo Morinello** highlighted the need for swift action.

_“If it wasn’t for this press conference, the work would continue albeit at a reduced capacity,”_ remarked Ortt, stressing the benefits of the agreement to the community.

Distribution of Funds Under Proposed Legislation

The legislators proposed a new version of the agreement which would drastically improve local support:

• **Niagara Falls Hospital** and **School District**: Up to **$750,000** each (5.5% of annual revenue share).
• **Destination Niagara**: Up to **$1 million** (7% share).
• **Underground Railroad Heritage Commission**: 1% with a minimum of **$200,000**.
• **Falls Housing Authority** and **Mount St. Mary’s Neighborhood Health Center**: **$50,000** each.

Legislative Challenges

While the bill has passed through the state senate, it now faces an uphill battle in the assembly. Although it doesn’t need bipartisan sponsorship as a local bill, **Democratic support** is critical for its success.

**Governor Kathy Hochul’s** recent endorsements suggest a continued commitment to Niagara Falls’ financial infrastructure, including last year’s **$7.6 million** funding allocation.

Opinion & Analysis

This ongoing struggle for funding highlights the vital role gaming revenue plays in community development. As negotiations drag on, the urgency for legislative renewal cannot be overstated. It’s a race against time for local leaders aiming to secure support for their districts’ essential services and economic development projects.

Final Thoughts

As we remain hopeful for a positive outcome, we urge the community to support the renewal of this agreement to safeguard local services. The next steps in this journey are crucial—let’s keep our eyes on the prize!