The Casino Control Commission reserved a casino license for the Trump Organization of New York in record time today - less than two hours. But the commission rejected the company's request that its Atlantic City landlords be exempted from licensing qualifications.
Donald J. Trump, owner of the Trump Organization, testified that he would not break ground for construction of Atlantic City's 10th casino without assurance that the landlord question could not hinder the opening of the $200 million project.
The Trump organization is leasing the land for its proposed 39-story, 612-room hotel from about 30 owners. If any one of them did not meet the casino-required approval, Mr. Trump would be required, under his lease arrangement, to buy them out, a development that could add several million dollars to the project.
Although his name was not mentioned at the hearing, one landlord whose suitability has been questioned is Daniel J. Sullivan. Mr. Sullivan has a criminal record and was an associate of James Hoffa, former president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Plan Won Quick Approval
Approval of Mr. Trump, his brother, Robert Trump, and their realestate and development company was swift, especially when compared with the two-month hearing for Playboy that ended last week and will not be decided until next month.
Deputy Attorney General Guy S. Michael of the Division of Gaming Enforcement recommended exempting the landlords because the Trump organization has 98-year leases and would pay fixed rentals, eliminating any leverage the lessors would have for influencing or controlling the casino operation.
Continue reading the main storyAfter it refused to exempt the landlords, the commission instructed an attorney for the Trump organization to submit a petition to insure opening of the casino even if a landlord is found unqualified.
Continue reading the main story