Springfield Mayor To Hear Casino Proposals On Monday
SPRINGFIELD (AP) — Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno is set to meet with representatives of several companies interested in putting a casino in the state's third-largest city.
Sarno has scheduled private meetings with potential developers on Monday. The mayor is expected to have a key role in future casino negotiations, as the state's new gambling law requires a host community agreement be reached with city officials and approved by voters before developers can apply for a license from the state gaming commission.
MGM Resorts unveiled an $800 million proposal last week for a resort casino and entertainment complex in downtown Springfield.
Ameristar Casinos has proposed a casino at a former industrial site off Interstate 91. Two other companies, Penn National Gaming and Hard Rock International, are also considering Springfield.
The mayor has not endorsed any of the plans.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
