Springfield casino plans on hold

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - 22News was on Beacon Hill Tuesday when the state Gaming Commission cited a possible conflict of interest and asked Springfield to put the process of bringing a casino to Springfield on hold.

22news broke the story last week of what appears to be a possible conflict of interest; the Springfield casino committee's consulting firm is a registered lobbyist for MGM and Penn National Gaming-- two of the four casino companies fighting to locate in western Massachusetts.

A lack of transparency could jeopardize Springfield's chances of winning the sole gaming license in the western part of the state. The consulting firm advising the Springfield casino committee throughout this process has history with two of the competing casino companies. And the fact it wasn't clearly announced is a big concern. 

“The city council funded this contract not knowing of this disclosure. It's a significant concern to us, it's a significant concern to the public,” said Springfield City Council President James Ferrara.

If a casino comes to Springfield, it will be a big project with big impacts. People I spoke with said the process should be about what's best for the city, and not a game of who knows who.

“They should have everything out in the open. Whoever has the best interest in Springfield should get the contract,” said Springfield resident Guarionex Figueroa.

“I personally think bringing casinos to Springfield would be a good thing. More jobs and job security and more tourists. I think everything should be out in the open and discussed before anybody makes any decisions,” said Springfield resident Jason Laterreur.

The State Gaming Commission will decide next week whether there's a problem with a conflict of interest. The consulting firm says the lawyers who work with those casinos in other states would NOT be involved here in Springfield, but they'll have to work hard proving their objectivity to the council, other casinos, and the public.