Monroe County Students and Job Seekers Reap Rewards of Table Games Passage

            TANNERSVILLE, January 7 – Senate Democratic Leader Robert Mellow (Lackawanna/ Luzerne/Monroe) visited Northampton Community College’s Monroe Campus to make a major announcement regarding passage of Senate Bill 711 and the effect it will have on Monroe County.

            The legislation provides $2.4 million a year in tax revenue collected from slot machines at Mount Airy Casino Resort in Swiftwater to finance construction of Northampton Community College’s future campus in Tannersville. The 20 year commitment will total $48 million in order to ensure completion of the project.

            “For those living in and around Monroe County, this is a victory in so many ways,” said Mellow. “First there are the 500 plus jobs that will soon be up for grabs at Mount Airy. Then there will be the millions of dollars each year going toward building a community college campus that will in turn create another 600 jobs. The local benefits can’t be overstated.”

            The money does not come from proceeds designated for the state’s Rainy Day Fund or for property tax relief.

            An economic impact study conducted by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance estimates the construction will create 500 jobs and generate approximately $46.6 million in economic activity, contributing to about $6.1 million in tax revenue.

            Once the campus is completed, which is expected to happen in 2012, the economic benefits and job opportunities will continue to multiply.

            The new campus will serve 5000 students, doubling the current capacity. It will also provide training space for local businesses, cultural events, meeting space for the community and athletic fields that can be used by area youth groups.

            “This will be a first-rate campus which will allow people to obtain a moderately-priced education in order to make themselves marketable during these very difficult economic times. Whether it is a young student who decides to pursue a more affordable education at NCC-Monroe or a more experienced worker learning a new trade or enhancing an old one, this construction fortifies an important educational resource,” Mellow added.

            Northampton Community College will also provide training for prospective job applicants pursuing opportunities that will be available at area casinos once table games are up and running.

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