Townsend blasts Destito in letter to Governor Paterson

ALBANY, August 28, 2009 -- In a letter addressed to Gov. David Paterson, Assemblyman David Townsend (R-Sylvan Beach) criticized the Turning Stone Resort-Casino's deal with a business co-owned by the husband of one his colleagues -- RoAnn Destito.

The letter is in response to reports that The Beeches of Rome, co-owned RoAnn's husband Christopher Destito, will cater alcohol at five restaurants and three lounges at the Turning Stone. This, in addition to having received several liquor permits in the past. 

"I am disappointed by the neglect, and concerned that political influence is being used to pressure the State Liquor Authority to grant Beeches an unfair advantage over local businesses," Townsend writes in the letter. 

Townsend goes on to present the case that Destito sits on a committee that oversees liquor permits, and makes the case for a conflict of interest.

"As Assemblywoman Destito's spouse, Christopher Destito continues to realize closer business ties between his catering company and Oneida Nation properties; the latest Beeches-Turning Stone contract is simply the most public example. Meanwhile, tavern and restaurant owners experience increasing difficulty operating in an environment where insider access appears to be the key to economic development," Townsend wrote.

Townsend calls for a review of all future permits, and suggests the governor call the State Liquor Authority to look into the Beeches-Turning Stone contract.