Mass taking casino fees this week

BOSTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Casino developers can start the process of applying for a gaming license as soon as this week.  The Massachusetts Gaming Commission plans to announce Wednesday that it will begin accepting a $400,000 fee from casino developers interested in building a casino in the state.

“As early as Thursday morning people can put in their deposits.  So the train is starting to move really fast right now,” said MGC Chairman Stephen Crosby.

The Commission has also given temporary approval for a set of regulations that outline what’s expected of developers in the casino license process.

“It’s a big step because what we now have are a set of rules that applicants will be able to review and make comment on and then we can finalize them with their input and then move on to the application phase so its an enormous step,” said Guy Michael, an MGC consultant and attorney from Michael & Carroll.

The Commission intends to set up the application process in two phases.  Phase one, includes a vigorous background check that’s meant to make sure casino applicants have the money to back up their casino proposals and that they are who they say they are.

MGC Commissioner Gayle Cameron said the background investigation can be considered by some to be intrusive.  “They are extremely thorough and every level of information is checked whether that be motor vehicle, criminal, civil, all information,” said Cameron.

When applicants submit their application fee they will be put in touch with state agencies and background checks could begin sometime after October.

Members of the public are invited to participate in a broad discussion on casino-related matters hosted by the MGC at Western New England University Wednesday, 12:30 to 5pm.