Mohegan Tribe wins decision on host for Massachusetts casino


Artist's rendering of proposed $1.3 billion Mohegan Sun casino in Massachusetts. Image from Mohegan Sun Massachusetts

The Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut won't have to negotiate another agreement for its commercial casino in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission on Thursday rejected a request by the city of Boston to be treated as a host community for the proposed $1.3 billion Mohegan Sun Massachusetts. The project is located entirely within the boundaries of the city of Revere.

"The commission found that the gaming establishment proposed by Mohegan Sun is located in the city of Revere, is not located in the city of Boston and that the city of Boston is accordingly not a host community," the commission said on its website. A written decision will be issued next week.

The ruling came after Stephen Crosby, the chairman of the commission, recused himself from any decisions affecting the license in eastern Massachusetts. His impartiality was questioned after he attended an event at a racetrack that's located at the tribe's site.


YouTube: Chairman Crosby's statement regarding recusal from Region A decision

"I want to take this opportunity to note the extraordinary amount of hard work and dedication that has resulted in the considerable progress and accomplishment achieved by the commission and its staff since we embarked on the implementation of an incredibly complex licensing process and the establishment of a new state agency," Crosby said yesterday. "I will not allow anything to distract or discredit that comprehensive effort."

The tribe is competing for the eastern Massachusetts license against Wynn Resorts, which is owned by billionaire Steve Wynn.

Get the Story:
Gaming Commission Denies Boston’s Host Community Bids (AP 5/8)
Boston Reviewing Legal Options After Gaming Commission Vote (WBUR 5/9)
Crosby recuses himself from Eastern Mass. casino vote (The Boston Globe 5/9)

Some Opinions:
Editorial: Crosby folds his hand (The Boston Herald 5/9)
Joan Vennochi: Crosby’s big gamble (The Boston Globe 5/9)

Related Stories
Mohegan Tribe faces crucial decision on Massachusetts casino (5/8)

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