The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, which wants to win a bid to build a casino in the state of Massachussets, said that a “host agreement” with the town of Palmer should be done by the end of August, Masslive.com reported.
It’s reportedly a matter of when, not if, but voters have the final say in the matter, as a referendum would occur within three months of the deal.
“I don’t support a 60 day referendum…I think it’s important to take the time to support all the impact studies. I think the more time the better,” At-large Councilor Paul E. Burns told Masslive. “There’s no need to push it through in 60 days.”
Mohegan Sun wants to build a $1 billion Las Vegas-style gambling facility across from the Massachusetts Turnpike exit 8 interchange on Thorndike Street.
The casino group has to battle it out with industry heavyweight MGM Resorts International, which wants to build an $800 million casino in Springfield, as well as Hard Rock International, which wants to erect a casino in West Springfield, for the sole casino license to be awarded for the western part of the state. MGM Resorts has already been approved by Springfield.
A total of three full-fledged casinos are coming to the state.
The final decision will be made by state gaming regulators.
