A rally that united Stockton University students, members of Local 54 and Atlantic City officials took place yesterday. The crowd marched from the shuttered Showboat Casino to Trump Taj Mahal and once again demanded university officials to be allowed to utilize the property as they consider appropriate.
Students organized a campaign called “Save Our Stoboat”. The reason, which led to such an initiative was the conflict between Caesars Entertainment and Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort.
University officials intended to use the Showboat as a dormitory and a student campus where classes could be held. During the summer months, when students are not at the premises, the rooms could be rented by tourists.
Students who took part in the protest are hopeful that their plans for moving to the new campus in the fall will come true but for now, the outcome of the dispute remains uncertain.
A few days ago, it became clear that Taj Mahal demands the Showboat property be used as a casino hotel of a world class and pointed to a covenant dating back to 1988.
In a special statement released on the matter, Taj Mahal officials announced that the main reason for their reluctance to have a university campus for a neighbor was their desire to avoid legal issues caused by underage residents who try to gamble.
However, students argued that an agreement signed almost three decades ago, could not pose a setback for employment and educational purposes in Atlantic City.
Students also warned that if Taj Mahal executives do not pay closer attention to their demands, more protests will follow.
As already mentioned, Atlantic City officials also joined yesterday’s rally. The Mayor of Atlantic City, Don Guardian, stated that he supports the claims of Local 54 and Stockton University students. Assemblymen Chris Brown, Vincent Mazzeo and Freeholder Will Pauls also took part in the protest.
As for Mayor Guardian, he stated that bringing the University to Atlantic City would be beneficial as there was nothing more important than ensuring the well-being of the residents in a long-term perspective. He also said he was sorry that all positive things in the city are so difficult to be materialized.
This afternoon, another protest is expected to be held. It is scheduled for 4 pm and the route will be the same – from the Showboat to Taj Mahal.
