Hamburg, NY – Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera announced today that a revenue sharing agreement has been reached between Hamburg Central School District and The Hamburg Fairgrounds.

Under the terms of the Educational Assistance Program Agreement, the Erie County Agricultural Society, Buffalo Raceway and SportsSystems Gaming Management at the Buffalo Raceway (a subsidiary of Delaware North) have agreed to remit approximately $5.5 million to the Hamburg Central Schools District over a 20-year period.

This funding will assist the school district in affording staff salaries, utility bills and bus fleet upkeep.

Assemblymember Rivera explored legislative solutions in order to get the Hamburg Central School District its fair share of revenue including a change to state finance law in better identifying “newly eligible school districts” as districts in which a casino facility is sited, and amending the Upstate Gaming and Economic Development Act to include a provision for “newly eligible school districts” that would receive revenue sharing.

Ultimately, Rivera was able to facilitate discussions and negotiations between the parties, and an agreement was reached that will offer Hamburg’s student population a much-needed boost in aid at a time in which districts face budget shortfalls.

As school districts across the state face mounting budgetary pressures, this innovative agreement represents a mutually beneficial arrangement, as the additional revenue funds will provide much-needed relief for Hamburg’s schools and will enable them to continue delivering high-quality education for future generation of Hamburg students.

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “The revenue generated from our state’s gaming facilities has traditionally been a benefit to our schools and educational system, filling in gaps and plugging budget holes. Given the unique nature of the Hamburg Central School District’s location, the school district did not receive full community investment. I’m proud to have worked with The Fairgrounds and the Hamburg school district to bring about a solution that will more equitably distribute gaming profits and will result in increased support for our students.”

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan said, “I am pleased that my office was able to help facilitate this agreement between Hamburg Schools and The Fairgrounds, which is appropriate for all parties. For the first time, a portion of the revenue generated by the gaming facility will help support the Hamburg School District, ensure important services and resources are available to students, teachers and staff, and ease the burden on local taxpayers. I appreciate the cooperation of the various parties involved in making this important agreement possible.”

Jessica Underberg, CEO & Fair Manager at the Hamburg Fairgrounds, said, “The Erie County Agricultural Society is proud to fund the Education Assistance Program for the Hamburg Central School District,” said Jessica Underberg, CEO & Fair Manager. “This long-term initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students in our community. With our mission deeply rooted in agricultural education, this program aligns perfectly with our efforts—including those of the Erie County Fair. We are thrilled to support the district’s continued success and to build a lasting partnership.”

Thomas Adams, Superintendent of the Hamburg Central School District, said, “The Hamburg Central School District is thankful for this welcome partnership with The Erie County Agricultural Society and to Assemblyman Jon Rivera, Senator Patrick Gallivan, retired Superintendent Michael Cornell, and the leadership of the Erie County Agricultural Society for their commitment to this process.”