Artist's rendering of proposed First Light Resort and Casino. Image from Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission extended the application process for a commercial casino in the southeastern region of the state. New bidders have until December 1 to join the race, with the final application due March 27, 2015. The decision marked the second time the deadline has been extended. H.3702, the Massachusetts Expanded Gaming Act, authorized three casinos in three regions of the state. The law gives first shot in the southeastern region to a "federally recognized tribe." The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is pursuing the $500 million First Light Resort and Casino in the city of Taunton. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has published a draft environmental impact statement for the project. However, the Expanded Gaming Act allows the commission to open the region to other bidders in case the tribe fails to secure federal approval for its casino. So far, initial applications have been submitted by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut and K.G. Urban Enterprises, a non-Indian developer. Extending the deadline could allow others to join the race. It also gives the Pequots and KG Urban more time to finalize their projects. The entire process, however, could be thrown into doubt if voters repeal the Expanded Gaming Act. The issue will be on the November ballot. Get the Story:
New casino applicants allowed in southeast region (The Taunton Daily Gazette 6/27)
Gaming panel issues new casino deadlines (The Cape Cod Times 6/27)
Walsh seeks delay on casino decision (The Boston Globe 6/27)
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