Casino consultant meets with Spfld. officials

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield's casino consultant hopes the process plays out so city residents can vote on a host agreement before July.

Consultant Sid Froelich briefed both the Casino Site Committee and the Springfield City Council on developing a Host Community Agreement.

Froelich told 22News that, while a casino presents a lot of positives, it can't cure every negative issue facing a city.

"You’re not going to solve all your park problems, homeless problems, every crime problem, etcetera with one casino,” said Froelich. “That's not going to happen. On the other hand, they contribute a substantial amount of cash, employment and other things that clearly improve the lot in life."

City Council President James Ferrera told 22News, "The council will not ratify just any agreement until after 30 days of review. Minimal 30 days of review."

Sid Froelich said he hopes city residents will be able to vote on a Host Community Agreement by June 25th.

The city's two hopeful Casino Developers, MGM and Penn National, have updated their proposals, and will meet with the public to address traffic and non-casino concerns, March 11th.