Casino officials meet with Forest Park residents

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Residents of Springfield's Forest Park community had an opportunity to bring their casino concerns directly to a developer.

At their monthly Civic Association meeting, officials from Penn National laid out their casino plan.

They talked about their proposed Hollywood themed casino and their ideas on mitigating traffic and maintaining the neighborhood's quality of life.

Residents listened with open ears, but some told 22News they still have concerns.

“I don't see casinos as the salvation to our city. I'm a landlord so I'm a little concerned about the fact that some of my tenants may tell me, gee I'm sorry. I don't have the rent money. I was down at the casino last week. I'm sorry I don't have the money,” Paul Sears said.

“We hope to be a member of this community for a long time. Not just in the North End but throughout the city. So we're here. We're meeting with the Armory Quadrangle Association and all the others to share our message, listen to concerns and develop a relationship,” Jeff Morris said.

Penn National hopes to develop in the North End.

MGM wants to build in the South End.

Both companies are in the process of negotiating a host community agreement with the city.

Residents may see the proposals on a voting ballot as soon June.