Vote on casino projects not binding on Wampanoag tribes

Tuesday, April 10, 2012  

Residents of at least three Massachusetts communities will go to the polls in May and June to show their support, or opposition, to hosting a tribal casino.

But the results of the elections won't be binding on the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe or the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Both tribes are hoping to open the first Indian gaming facility in the state.

“We’re taking this one step at a time," a spokesperson for Gov. Deval Patrick (D) said in a statement, GateHouse News Service reported. “If the town were to vote against it, we’d have to reevaluate.”

H.3702, the state's gaming law, authorizes three casinos in the state. One is reserved for "a federally recognized tribe."

The law also authorizes Patrick to negotiate a Class III gaming compact. He has agreed to talks with the Mashpee Tribe but hasn't said anything about the Aquinnah Tribe.

Get the Story:
Taunton's June 9 casino referendum is not binding (GateHouse News Service 4/10)
Taunton casino vote is not binding (The Boston Globe 4/9)

Town sets June 2 election for Aquinnah Wampanoag casino (4/6)
Opinion: Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe's casino wrong for city (3/26)