With official federal recognition, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe hopes to open the first Indian gaming facility in Massachusetts.

The tribe has purchased land in Middleboro for potential development. Local clergy have made it clear they don't want a casino in their backyard.

"We are concerned because casinos disproportionately hurt the most vulnerable people in society," a letter from the Middleborough-Lakeville Clergy Association states.

Class III gaming is not legal in the state but Treasurer Timothy P. Cahill wants to beat the tribe to the draw. He will unveil plans to open a state-sponsored casino today.

New England is already home to two of the largest casinos in the world. But the Mohegan Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, both of Connecticut, aren't worried about the potential competition from the Mashpees.

Get the Story:
Clergy vow fight against casino (The Boston Globe 5/24)
Treasurer looks to beat tribe with casino deal (The Boston Globe 5/24)
Mashpees to pursue Massachusetts casino (The Norwich Bulletin 5/24)
Middleboro officials see no reason to share casino compensation (The Brockton Enterprise 5/24)
Patrick bet on casino coming soon (The Brockton Enterprise 5/24)