Published on: January 13, 2026, 08:37h.
Updated on: January 13, 2026, 08:37h.
- MGM Resorts reaffirmed its dedication to Westchester County, New York, throughout 2025
- Community volunteer efforts and funding continued even after MGM’s casino proposal was withdrawn in Yonkers
MGM Resorts made headlines when it unexpectedly withdrew its proposal for a casino in Yonkers, just weeks before the application deadline last fall. Despite this setback regarding its Empire City racino, the Las Vegas-based company remains dedicated to enhancing the community through donations and volunteerism.
In 2025, hundreds of MGM employees at Empire City Casino dedicated their time to various local nonprofit organizations. The casino also allocated funds and grants to charitable causes throughout Westchester County, including Yonkers and Mount Vernon, as well as the Bronx.
“Fostering meaningful social change that uplifts our communities is inherent to Empire City’s mission, both locally in New York and globally across MGM Resorts,” stated Louis Theros, President and Chief Operating Officer of Empire City Casino, as reported by the Bronx Times.
“As colleagues, neighbors, and friends, our commitment has only intensified as our team strives to support the community. We look forward to continuing our role as advocates for community enhancement in the Bronx and Westchester for generations to follow,” Theros added.
Racino Perspective
On October 14, 2025, MGM Resorts withdrew its application for a downstate New York casino, which included plans for slot machines, live dealer table games, and sports betting. MGM had been seen as a frontrunner for one of the three licenses.
MGM proposed a $2.3 billion redevelopment for Empire City, a racino featuring a 138,000 square-foot gaming floor with around 4,500 slot-like video lottery terminals (VLT) and electronic table games. The company determined that “competitive and economic factors” rendered the investment less appealing.
Labeling the decision to withdraw as “challenging,” MGM explained that their investment was based on the expectation of securing a 30-year casino license. However, state officials clarified that initial licenses would only last 15 years.
“Together, these developments culminate in a scenario that no longer aligns with our commitment to effective capital management and that of our real estate partner in Yonkers, VICI,” stated MGM in an announcement.
Despite this, the company reiterated its dedication to Yonkers and Westchester County.
“Since acquiring Empire City Casino in 2019, MGM Resorts has proudly partnered with the City of Yonkers and the State of New York. The property has contributed over $5 billion to New York State education, including $1.6 billion since our ownership commenced. We understand our decision will affect many individuals; we remain focused on operating the facility as it stands and believe it will continue to succeed in serving the Yonkers area and neighboring communities,” the company stated.
Community Involvement
Employees from MGM’s Empire City worked alongside Feeding Westchester to deliver over 20,000 meals to senior citizens and families in need during 2025. Additionally, the casino provided assistance to Catholic Charities Community Services to supply 9,000 meals.
Other organizations benefiting from Empire City Casino’s contributions included the Boys and Girls Club of Mount Vernon, the Hudson River Museum, Yonkers High School, and the Morris Heights Health Center.