Palmer Mayor Supports Casino

SPRINGFIELD, MA – In a press release yesterday, Palmer Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said he supports casinos in Massachusetts and specifically the Mohegan Sun proposal for Palmer. He recognizes the benefits to the regional economy of Springfield and surrounding communities.

"I stand firm on my commitment to this venture, especially with news out of Boston that there may be up to a $750 million budget deficit," Sarno said. "We need to bring that money home.”

It is estimated that Massachusetts residents spend $1 billion annually at Connecticut and other out-of-state casinos.

"While casinos may not be the ultimate answer to our economic issues, they clearly will create new opportunities for construction jobs, permanent employment and much needed revenue that can be used for many purposes, including a possible reduction in property taxes," Sarno said.

He continued: "We need to be at the table when negotiations start, because wherever the casino may be in Western Massachusetts, Springfield has to be one of the beneficiaries of the Hampden County Host Fee. We need to establish jobs, tourist attractions and vendor agreements in a way that will benefit Springfield and area communities. I will represent our citizens at that negotiating table."

Meanwhile, Mayor Michael D. Bissonnette of Chicopee also supports the casino bill and suggests that a casino be built on 100 acres in Chicopee between Westover Metropolitan Airport and Exit 6 of the state turnpike.
 

Return to Massachusetts Casinos.