Menino: Suffolk Downs ideal for casino

BOSTON (State House News Service) - Boston Mayor Thomas Menino insisted Tuesday that Suffolk Downs, the East Boston horse track, is the best location for a resort-style casino, despite recent reports that Patriots owner Robert Kraft and casino mogul Steve Wynn are eyeing a license to build in Foxborough.

“I think the best one is Suffolk Downs. It’s near the convention center. It’s near the airport. It’s natural to me. Suffolk Downs has been there for many years,” Menino told reporters after a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce event in the Back Bay. “There will have to be some improvements made in the infrastructure around Suffolk Downs. But I still believe it’s the perfect location for a casino.”

The location of three casinos permitted under a law signed last month by Gov. Deval Patrick is left to a five-member Gaming Commission, whose appointees have yet to be named.

“It’s a long process. A lot of people are assuming a lot. The five-member commission will make those choices,” he said. “There’s a lot of hoo-ha. You have to put the meat to the bones. I haven’t seen any meat to the bones yet.”

Suffolk Downs has long girded for the right to operate a casino, partnering with Caesars Entertainment to prepare a bid. But Kraft emerged in recent weeks as a potential contender for a license designated for the eastern region of the state, partnering with Wynn. Under the legislation signed by Gov. Deval Patrick earlier this month, only one casino license will be available in each of three regions of the state.

Menino said his influence in that process is minimal.

“I have no say in the matter. It’s a five-member commission. That commission will make those decisions. My opinion doesn’t have a lot of weight in this one. But I’ll voice my opinion,” he said.

During his availability, Menino didn’t directly answer when asked if he expects state government to send the city more local aid next year, instead delivering a broadside to state policymakers.

“Do I expect the state to give me local aid? Are they going to make up for the $100 million I lost over the last six years?” he asked in a sharp tone. “Alright, next question.”