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Government Novice to Take Over New Jersey Casino Authority

ATLANTIC CITY, New Jersey – As reported by the Press of Atlantic City: "Gov. James E. McGreevey selected a government outsider Thursday to take control of a state development agency torn by political strife in recent months and intense competition for its millions of dollars in casino funding.

"Cape May County Republican Curtis Bashaw, a real estate developer and political novice, will join the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority as its new executive director when the agency's 15-member board of directors formally approves his nomination Feb. 24.

"Bashaw's appointment completes McGreevey's takeover of the CRDA following a political power struggle last fall pitting the governor against state Sen. William L. Gormley, the Atlantic County Republican who dominated the authority for years.

"…Although he lacks government experience, Bashaw is close to Cape May County's Republican powerbrokers.

"…The CRDA dispenses hundreds of millions of dollars in casino revenue for new housing and economic development in Atlantic City and other areas of the state. Its immense development fund and lucrative contracts make it an attractive target for politicians and consultants looking to win projects and business.

"In recent years, the authority went on a spending spree and much of its money is already committed. Competition for funding is expected to become even more intense now that the agency has begun to tighten its belt…"

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