The Town of Nichols and Tioga County will each get money to offset the cost of hosting Tioga Downs, as Sen. Tom Libous and other lawmakers defeated a bad gubernatorial plan to cut revenue sharing from the facility.

 Libous' success means the Town of Nichols will get about $239,000 and Tioga County will get about $367,000. The money comes from video lottery terminal fees that the tracks pay to the State.

 "Tioga Downs is a great asset for our entire region, but it does present some challenges for the governments that host it," Libous said. "This money will help offset greater wear on the roads, the greater need for emergency equipment and other costs that come with such a popular attraction."

 Former Gov. Eliot Spitzer had proposed cutting the shared revenue in half for Nichols and Tioga County. Current Gov. David Paterson insisted on some cut but agreed to a 2 percent reduction, instead of 50 percent.

  "Tioga Downs provides 300 jobs and attracts thousands of people who spend money," Libous said. "More importantly, it's a centerpiece for other development, such as gas stations, restaurants and other entertainment venues."

 This is the second time this year Libous stood up for Tioga Downs. Spitzer had proposed cutting revenue sharing for Tioga Downs and eight other tracks - money that helps the tracks market themselves and stay open.  And Jeff Gural, who owns Tioga Downs, did briefly close Vernon Downs near Utica.

 Libous and other lawmakers worked to reach an agreement that let tracks spend more on capital improvements and marketing.

 "Tioga Downs is - and I hope will grow as - a great draw for tourists and entertainment dollars," Libous said. "When the project was developing, the State promised to help Nichols and Tioga County overcome some of the burdens. 
We're making sure the State keeps its promise."