Pioneer Valley
Planning Commission

Eric Carle Museum, Amherst, MA

Media Release

CONTACT: Edward S. Harrison, Westren Massachusetts Casino Task Force Chair (413) 267-3762


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 29, 2009

Western Massachusetts Casino Task Force Presents Concerns on Gambling Legislation to State Legislature

The Western Massachusetts Casino Task Force has developed a list of concerns that should be considered as potential gambling legalization law by the state Legislature is under debate.

The full list of concerns, developed at the request of Sen. Stephen Brewer, can be found on the Task Force website at http://www.pvpc.org/casino/web-content/docs/L-WMCATLegislatorsAugust200.pdf. Among those concerns, the seven highest priority items address a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis of slot parlors and mega-casinos, regional mitigation trust funds, education, housing, local representation on gaming commissions and oversight committees, public safety, and infrastructure.

The Task Force, which takes no official position opposing or supporting the expansion of gambling and gaming in Massachusetts, has developed this list of concerns and issues to support its stated objectives to assure that western Massachusetts communities and included in the public policy process; to assure that the state commits to funding a study of all potential impacts of expanded gambling and gaming in these communities; and to assure that casino enabling legislation is amended to guarantee adequate compensation to affected communities for mitigating negative impacts of expanded development and operation.

The Western Massachusetts Casino Task Force was formed in 2007 to address potential issues facing communities from the possible legalization of casino gambling in the Commonwealth as proposed by Gov. Deval Patrick. The Task Force, which meets monthly, consists of representatives for the towns of Belchertown, Brookfield, Brimfield, Hampden, Holland, Ludlow, Monson, Palmer, Sturbridge, Wales, Ware, Warren, West Brookfield, and Wilbraham. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission serves on the Task Force as technical advisors and support staff.

For more information, visit the Western Massachusetts Casino Task Force website at http://www.pvpc.org/casino/index.html.