City of Yonkers officials and the MGM Empire City Community Advisory Commitee, invited residents to Grinton I. Will Public Library in Yonkers Monday to voice their opinions about the casino's application for a casino gaming license.

MGM Resorts, which owns Empire City Casino, submitted the commercial casino license application on June 26.

"The award of a casino gaming license to MGM Empire City will spur a transformative redevelopment, including new destination dining experiences and a first-of-its-kinds entertainment venue in the region that will draw A-list performers and events," said Mayor Mike Spano.

Officials with MGM say the $2.3 billon redevelopment project would include a renovation and expansion of the current gaming area, three full-service restaurants, a parking garage and a new entertainment venue fit to hold a maximum of 5,000 people.

Some were excited for the proposed changes at the hearing.

"This is money we desperately need to fix our aging schools, improve infrastructure, and support essential city services. Let's not start debating hypothetical problems. Let's focus on real, tangible benefits," said one Yonker resident.

Others disagreed.

"We have schools that are totally underfunded that do not have the budgetary remedy that is needed to support the schools...despite the fact that we have a casino," said another Yonkers resident, who took the podium to speak.

The MGM Empire City Community Advisory Committee will vote on Sept. 30 on whether to advance the project for commercial casino consideration.