Atlantic City is once again playing host this week to the 27th Annual East Coast Gaming Congress (ECGC), bringing together the industry’s top leaders and stakeholders.

The two-day event kicked off April 17 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino AC. It features an exhibit hall, networking opportunities, panel discussions, speeches from gaming leaders and more.

“The basic notion of ‘Leaders Speaking to Leaders’ will be on full display at this event,” ECGC co-founders Lloyd Levenson and Michael Pollock, wrote in their welcome note. “Our roster of speakers begins with 11 CEOs as well as the Attorney General of New Jersey, and includes a host of experts in legislation, regulation, operations, investment, and all relevant gaming verticals.”

During the luncheon, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin will deliver remarks, while recently retired Division of Gaming Enforcement Director David Rebuck will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

James Plousis, New Jersey Casino Control Commission chairman, opened the day with a look at the state of the gaming industry in Atlantic City and in the Garden State.

“There’s no question Atlantic City has some challenges – but we’re stable and headed in the right direction,” said Plousis, who pointed to some key stats such as gaming, internet gaming, and sports wagering revenues – as well as occupancy rates.

Plousis also noted the work being done by the casino operators to improve and reinvest in their properties.

“Everybody is reinvesting – in new restaurants, upgrading rooms and suites, new convention areas, in arcade areas for children,” said Plousis. “So, we are really investing in Atlantic City. And, truly, what we have going for us – is we have nine destinations. We have nine unique properties that people want to see.”

Addressing allegations

Following Plousis, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., took the podium to welcome the conference to Atlantic City. Small’s appearance comes as he faces a legal firestorm – following charges announced earlier this week alleging that he and his wife, La’Quetta, superintendent of the city’s public schools, physically and emotionally abused their teenage daughter.

The couple maintains their innocence.

In his remarks, Small briefly addressed the situation.

“I just want to say this – ladies and gentlemen. We’ve all seen news accounts of what’s going on with myself, personally. And it’s just that – personal,” said Small. “But I pledge to each and every one of you – it doesn’t change my commitment, number one to my family. And it doesn’t change my commitment here in the Great City of Atlantic City.”

Small continued by saying that people often write AC’s obituary.

“And I always tell you that the rumors of the demise of the Great City of Atlantic City and its casino industry continue to be greatly exaggerated,” said Small. “Again, my commitment is to the people of Atlantic City, the business and its partners. And as I said on this stage in February, 2024 – ain’t no stopping us now. One more time, can you say great day?”

After his speech, Small briefly spoke to reporters who asked about the situation, which he could not comment on directly because it is an ongoing legal matter.

“Momentum is at an all-time high in the Great City of Atlantic City – and that should be the focus,” Small told reporters. “As my attorney stated, it has nothing to do with my job. Doing a great job as mayor. We are putting the city in prime position to win – and that’s my focus each and every day. Things can be a distraction – but it’s important not to be distracted.”

NJBIZ will have further coverage from the ECGC.