Showing posts with label Suffolk Downs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Suffolk Downs. Show all posts
Monday, July 1, 2019
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Councilor Lydia Edwards Proposes Fair Housing Amendment to Boston Zoning Code
Change Would Advance Civil Rights In Housing & Planning
(Boston, MA, APRIL 11, 2019) - Today, on the eve of the 51st anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, Councilor Lydia Edwards introduced a zoning amendment at the city council to advance fair housing through planning and zoning in the City of Boston.
“Planning and zoning can be tools of equity or tools of exclusion,” said Councilor Edwards. “As we move into the next 50 years of the Fair Housing Act, Boston can advance civil rights by adopting fair housing into our zoning code and ensuring we plan community development for all residents.”
The Fair Housing Act, signed into law on April 11, 1968, outlawed discrimination in sale, rental, and financing of housing. The Act does more, however, than just ban discrimination: it calls for processes that actively promote equity. The zoning change will require the city to engage in a thorough analysis of displacement and access to housing for protected classes, such as people of color, families with children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other protected classes when reviewing new large-scale development projects.
Under the zoning change, large-scale developments would be subject to a fair housing analysis, ensuring that city plans include protected classes of residents, such as people of color, the elderly or persons with disabilities. The amendment focuses particularly on multi-acre “planned development areas” (PDAs). In reviewing PDAs, the city would be required to use data on barriers to housing, and local demographic information, in its decision about whether or not to approve the development, and just as importantly, in how it negotiates public benefits.
Fair housing is already a commitment of the City of Boston and there are several laudable efforts underway. The Office of Fair Housing and Equity conducts fair housing trainings and, with the Fair Housing Commission, supports residents in addressing discrimination complaints. The Department of Neighborhood Development runs an Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Program to promote equal access to government-assisted housing.The Boston Housing Authority operates a Fair Housing and Employment Unit to enforce fair housing standards. However, there are not currently procedures in planning and zoning, which fundamentally shape community development, to affirmatively further fair housing or monitor how zoning and planning impact fair housing. The proposed zoning amendment would address that gap.
Summary of key changes:
(Boston, MA, APRIL 11, 2019) - Today, on the eve of the 51st anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, Councilor Lydia Edwards introduced a zoning amendment at the city council to advance fair housing through planning and zoning in the City of Boston.
“Planning and zoning can be tools of equity or tools of exclusion,” said Councilor Edwards. “As we move into the next 50 years of the Fair Housing Act, Boston can advance civil rights by adopting fair housing into our zoning code and ensuring we plan community development for all residents.”
The Fair Housing Act, signed into law on April 11, 1968, outlawed discrimination in sale, rental, and financing of housing. The Act does more, however, than just ban discrimination: it calls for processes that actively promote equity. The zoning change will require the city to engage in a thorough analysis of displacement and access to housing for protected classes, such as people of color, families with children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other protected classes when reviewing new large-scale development projects.
Under the zoning change, large-scale developments would be subject to a fair housing analysis, ensuring that city plans include protected classes of residents, such as people of color, the elderly or persons with disabilities. The amendment focuses particularly on multi-acre “planned development areas” (PDAs). In reviewing PDAs, the city would be required to use data on barriers to housing, and local demographic information, in its decision about whether or not to approve the development, and just as importantly, in how it negotiates public benefits.
Fair housing is already a commitment of the City of Boston and there are several laudable efforts underway. The Office of Fair Housing and Equity conducts fair housing trainings and, with the Fair Housing Commission, supports residents in addressing discrimination complaints. The Department of Neighborhood Development runs an Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Program to promote equal access to government-assisted housing.The Boston Housing Authority operates a Fair Housing and Employment Unit to enforce fair housing standards. However, there are not currently procedures in planning and zoning, which fundamentally shape community development, to affirmatively further fair housing or monitor how zoning and planning impact fair housing. The proposed zoning amendment would address that gap.
Summary of key changes:
- Adds definition of "affirmatively furthering fair housing" and "analysis of impediments" to zoning code
- Adds definition of “exclusionary displacement” to zoning code
- Changes "Article 80" (the zoning procedure for reviewing large development) to address fair housing and displacement concerns
- Changes standards for approvals for future review, amendment or updates to massive “planned development areas” like Suffolk Downs or Seaport Square, to incorporate fair housing and displacement concerns
- Raises the standards for public benefits in planned development areas affecting East Boston specifically.
Monday, January 29, 2018
Monday, November 20, 2017
Gove Street Citizens Association to meet on Monday, November 27
Here's the agenda:
GSCA Executive Board Election - Any GSCA voting member may nominate themselves, or any other eligible voting member, or members, for election to any of the following Offices for a two-year term:
Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and Director At-Large. Nomination signup sheets will be available at this meeting for a January 22nd monthly meeting election.
There will be no monthly meeting on December 25th, Christmas Day.
Update on status of GSCA area projects.
MEETING DATE: Monday, November 27, 2017
TIME: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
LOCATION - The Noddle Island Community Room located on the first floor of the Logan Airport Rental Car Center situated at the end of Porter Street. Free event parking in front of the building and in the Porter Street parking lot adjacent to the building.
GSCA Executive Board Election - Any GSCA voting member may nominate themselves, or any other eligible voting member, or members, for election to any of the following Offices for a two-year term:
Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and Director At-Large. Nomination signup sheets will be available at this meeting for a January 22nd monthly meeting election.
There will be no monthly meeting on December 25th, Christmas Day.
Update on status of GSCA area projects.
- Suffolk Downs Project – Comprehensive planning, design & scheduling presentation. Tom O’Brien of HYM Associates.
- 158 Cottage Street – A proposal for a325-square foot pressure treated roof deck off the back bedroom of the house. Owner Frank Murray (2nd presentation / Vote to be taken.)
- 18 Everett Street – A proposal to demolish the existing structure and erect a 9-unit residential building with 9 parking spaces. Attorney Richard Lynds (1st presentation / No vote at this time.)
- 23 Everett Street - A proposal to change the occupancy from a one-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling. Also, renovate the building by adding a 3rd story addition. Attorney Jeffrey Drago (1st presentation / No vote at this time.)
- 128 Gove Street / Mt. Carmel – A proposal to demolish the existing structures on the former Mt. Carmel Church property, with the exception of the church structure, and erect 4 multi-level buildings with 121 Units. The project will consist of fifty percent condos to 50 percent rentals. The project will also include an underground parking facility. Subject to a BPDA Project Review Process. Attorney Jeffrey Drago (1st presentation / No vote at this time.)
MEETING DATE: Monday, November 27, 2017
TIME: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
LOCATION - The Noddle Island Community Room located on the first floor of the Logan Airport Rental Car Center situated at the end of Porter Street. Free event parking in front of the building and in the Porter Street parking lot adjacent to the building.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Live racing returns to Suffolk Downs with three racing and food truck festivals
EAST BOSTON, MA – Live Thoroughbred racing will return to Suffolk Downs after a ten-month hiatus. Starting Saturday, September 5 and continuing on Saturday, October 3 and October 31, the track will host three special festival days of racing which will include food trucks from over a dozen vendors, craft beer, live music and family fun activities for the whole family.
“We are very excited for the return of the 80-year tradition of live racing here, for the opportunity to keep people working as we transition to the development of the property and to provide a venue for the NEHBPA and the Mass breeders for this year and next,” said Chip Tuttle, Chief Operating Officer at Suffolk Downs.
Gates open at 11:00 a.m. and first post for live racing is scheduled at 12:00 p.m. In addition to traditional flat racing, fans can expect to be treated to steeplechase racing for the first time at the East Boston oval since 1997. Some familiar faces from the trainer and jockey colony will be returning for the races as well as some of the top players from racetracks across the East Coast to compete for purse money in excess of half a million dollars.
“These will be three days of celebration, the last of which will coincide with the Breeders’ Cup on October 31st,” said Lou Raffetto, a consultant for the New England HBPA who is overseeing the planning of the festival. “We are inviting everyone who loves horses, loves Suffolk Downs, loves food trucks and craft beer and just wants to spend the day with us having family fun. We really see it as one big party during three great days.”
Some of Boston’s favorite food trucks will be part of these three race dates. Come enjoy a day of racing but be sure to come hungry and enjoy everything burgers to Asian to grilled cheese to sirloin sliders, hot dogs and more! Twelve great food trucks will be on hand…including Bonetown Burgers, Yumm Bai, Trolley Dogs, Mommogoose and more!
For more information, visit www.suffolkdowns.com
“We are very excited for the return of the 80-year tradition of live racing here, for the opportunity to keep people working as we transition to the development of the property and to provide a venue for the NEHBPA and the Mass breeders for this year and next,” said Chip Tuttle, Chief Operating Officer at Suffolk Downs.
Gates open at 11:00 a.m. and first post for live racing is scheduled at 12:00 p.m. In addition to traditional flat racing, fans can expect to be treated to steeplechase racing for the first time at the East Boston oval since 1997. Some familiar faces from the trainer and jockey colony will be returning for the races as well as some of the top players from racetracks across the East Coast to compete for purse money in excess of half a million dollars.
“These will be three days of celebration, the last of which will coincide with the Breeders’ Cup on October 31st,” said Lou Raffetto, a consultant for the New England HBPA who is overseeing the planning of the festival. “We are inviting everyone who loves horses, loves Suffolk Downs, loves food trucks and craft beer and just wants to spend the day with us having family fun. We really see it as one big party during three great days.”
Some of Boston’s favorite food trucks will be part of these three race dates. Come enjoy a day of racing but be sure to come hungry and enjoy everything burgers to Asian to grilled cheese to sirloin sliders, hot dogs and more! Twelve great food trucks will be on hand…including Bonetown Burgers, Yumm Bai, Trolley Dogs, Mommogoose and more!
For more information, visit www.suffolkdowns.com
Monday, September 22, 2014
Sept. 30: State Representative Candidate Forum "Our Community, Our Future"
You are cordially invited:
State Representative Candidate Forum "Our Community, Our Future"
Date: Tuesday, September 30
Time: 5:30-7:30 pm
Location: Maverick Landing Community Room
31 Liverpool Street, East Boston
Simultaneous translation English to Spanish available, light refreshments will be served at 5:30 pm. Children friendly environment, all are welcome.
This is a non-partisan candidate forum co-sponsored by Neighbors United for a Better East Boston (NUBE), Mass VOTE, Right to the City Boston, East Boston Ecumencial Council (EBECC) and Maverick Association of Residents (MAR).
For more info, please contact NUBE, 617-981-4010 or info@nubeastboston.org.
Thank you,
Maverick Association of Residents (M.A.R.)
31 Liverpool Street, East Boston, MA 02128
617-569-5100/ fax 617-567-2420
Twitter: @MAREastBoston
Office Hours: 10am-1pm, Tuesday & Thursdays
State Representative Candidate Forum "Our Community, Our Future"
Date: Tuesday, September 30
Time: 5:30-7:30 pm
Location: Maverick Landing Community Room
31 Liverpool Street, East Boston
Simultaneous translation English to Spanish available, light refreshments will be served at 5:30 pm. Children friendly environment, all are welcome.
This is a non-partisan candidate forum co-sponsored by Neighbors United for a Better East Boston (NUBE), Mass VOTE, Right to the City Boston, East Boston Ecumencial Council (EBECC) and Maverick Association of Residents (MAR).
For more info, please contact NUBE, 617-981-4010 or info@nubeastboston.org.
Thank you,
Maverick Association of Residents (M.A.R.)
31 Liverpool Street, East Boston, MA 02128
617-569-5100/ fax 617-567-2420
Twitter: @MAREastBoston
Office Hours: 10am-1pm, Tuesday & Thursdays
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
After the MGC vote: Community group offers five guiding principles for development of Suffolk Downs
Former Secretary of Transportation and Local Urban Development Experts Announce New Vision for Future Planning of the Suffolk Downs Site
Community group offers five guiding principles for development(BOSTON, Mass., September 17, 2014) -- Led by former Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation Jim Aloisi, a largely East Boston-based group of urban planners, architects, public infrastructure experts, and representatives of various community groups propose an alternative vision to a casino at Suffolk Downs.
This group, formed after the November 5, 2013, election in which East Boston voters rejected a casino at Suffolk Downs, has been working toward offering a new vision for the development of the 161 acre site. The group is releasing this document in light of Sterling Suffolk LLC's decision Tuesday to close track operations next year.
The group’s two-page vision statement, titled “Overarching Principles For Development in East Boston,” outlines five principles by which all future significant development proposals in East Boston – and Suffolk Downs in particular – should be measured. The principles, including job creation, community inclusion and a transparent process, environmental impact, transit-oriented development, and economic feasibility, present a framework to ensure that this critical and unique site is developed in a way that enhances quality of life, job creation and return on investment for all residents of Boston and surrounding communities.
“Although Suffolk Downs is privately owned, it is supported by a highway and transit system owned and operated by the state and paid for by the taxpayers of Massachusetts,” said Aloisi, a native of East Boston. “It is only fair and just that any major development on its grounds be thoroughly vetted by local citizenry and surrounding communities. We hope these principles, which express a positive and forward-looking vision for the future of this site and community, will be embraced by a broad spectrum of state and local decision makers.”
As many real estate and other investment experts contend, the Suffolk Downs site offers a wealth of development possibilities beyond a casino. For example, Banker and Tradesman recently noted that "At a time when home and condo prices are soaring out of reach for middle class families in Boston, Suffolk's 110 or so Boston acres are a huge potential asset, ground zero for the Hub's next big mixed-use neighborhood of shops and homes." (1)
Desirable factors such as quick access to downtown Boston, Logan Airport and the emerging Innovation District in South Boston via the Blue Line and soon the Silver Line, as well as a shared economic center for the communities of East Boston, Revere and Winthrop make Suffolk Downs an exceptional candidate for a mix of housing and commercial development opportunities, according to the group. Also, the adjacent Belle Isle Marsh provides abundant green space and offers potential connections to the East Boston Greenway.
A full version of the “Overarching Principles For Development in East Boston” can be found athttps://sites.google.com/site/eastboston2020/. For more information, please contact MailFilterGateway has detected a possible fraud attempt from "mail.google.com" claiming to be east.boston.visioning@gmail.com.
Visioning group members include:
Jim Aloisi
Lyle Bradley
Joel Bryce
Ernani Jose DeAraujo
Antonio Di Mambro
Neenah Estrella-Luna, MPH, PhD
Brian Gregory
Steve Holt
Giordana Mecagni
Sandra Nijjar
Mike Russo
Trent Sheppard
* * * *
(1) Banker and Tradesman, "Forget Gambling: Suffolk Downs Has Mixed-Use Development Potential" Sunday, November 17, 2013http://www.bankerandtradesman.com/news157396.html
Monday, August 11, 2014
East Boston and Revere Casino Opponents to Boycott Final Commission Hearing, Calling it an 'Illegitimate Sham,' and will Throw Full Energy Into Repeal
PRESS RELEASE
(East Boston, MA August 11, 2014) --A coalition of groups opposing Greater Boston casinos -- including No Eastie Casino, Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston and Friends of Revere -- announced today they have called an official boycott of the Monday, August 11, Massachusetts Gaming Commission Host Community Meeting in Revere, MA.
"After months of trying to fight through an illegitimate, illegal process that has denied the people of East Boston the rule of law by denying our vote, our core groups are throwing our full weight behind the work to Repeal the Casino Deal across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," said No Eastie Casino spokesman Matt Cameron. "We are boycotting the corrupt, illegitimate sham of a hearing at the Mass Gaming Commission on August 11."
According to the Massachusetts gaming statute passed by our legislature and signed by Governor Deval Patrick, if a proposed casino is located in two communities, both communities must vote to allow the development of that casino to enable that proposal to move forward. On November 5, 2013, 56 percent of East Boston residents voted no to a proposed casino at Suffolk Downs. That proposed casino was to be built completely in East Boston on Suffolk Downs' property -- two-thirds of which is in East Boston. The people of Revere also voted on this proposal because the land was in both towns, and people recognized that Revere offered amenities which are statutorily considered part of a casino for the purposes of designating host community status.
Legally, the casino proposal at Suffolk Downs should then have died. However, in furtherance of a corrupt process, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission allowed Mohegan Sun to collude with Suffolk Downs to create the illusion that a proposed casino along the Revere-East Boston line does not require an East Boston vote. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission joined and promoted that collusion-even extending their deadline; even now, their decision will be based on incomplete information due to the failure of the Mohegan Sun-Suffolk Downs entity to file all the necessary, updated, accurate paperwork in a timely fashion. Together, this colluding group willfully withheld information for months that the Gaming Commission later agreed would likely have proven East Boston to be a host community; they called this information--a critical clause in a lease -- "a trade secret." When the City of Boston's attorneys pursued this information, the Gaming Commission -- both supposed watch dog and enabler -- communicated with Mohegan Sun, and somehow, the questionable "trade secret" lease clause was removed from the lease. This happened five months after the Gaming Commission had said Revere could have another vote, but East Boston would not have one.
As a result of this and other demonstrated irregularities in this Region A decision process, a complaint and request for investigation of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has been filed with the Commonwealth Inspector General's office.
Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Meanwhile, the Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials. Unfortunately, although 56 percent of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities. The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh. Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground. As grassroots organizations, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere do not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings. Many casino supporters, on the other hand, are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work.
Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Mass Gaming Commission. Meanwhile, the Mass Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials. Unfortunately, although 56% of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities. The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh. Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground. As a grassroots organization, No Eastie Casino does not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings (many casino supporters are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work).
"The people of East Boston stand firm in the belief that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has allowed this illegal violation of the rule of law because the corrupt casino industry has spent millions of dollars to encourage just this outcome," Cameron said. "We also strongly believe this flagrant violation of our vote would not be happening in a wealthier community. We also strongly believe that this Commonwealth was founded on principals of justice, fairness and sharing of the common wealth. We strongly believe this is not yet an aristocracy, but retains at least some semblance of democracy -- and will continue to do so if we continue to fight for it. We believe our fellow citizens, once duly educated about this corrupt and unfair process, will stand with us in voting to repeal this flawed legislation and restore a greater measure of democracy and fairness to this Commonwealth. This state has been a leader in recognizing the rights of many -- and we know, likewise, this state's good people will recognize the right of the people of East Boston to have a vote, to vote NO, and to have that vote carry the same weight as the vote of any other commonwealth community."
On August 11, 2014, the core group members from Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston, Friends of Revere and No Eastie Casino will be working diligently to advance the campaign to repeal this law. Should you have any questions, please contact us at the Repeal the Casino Deal headquarters in East Boston. Our work there will serve as our protest of the Mass Gaming Commission's sham hearing.
Source for this Press Release: Repeal the Casino Deal, 617-981-4177
(East Boston, MA August 11, 2014) --A coalition of groups opposing Greater Boston casinos -- including No Eastie Casino, Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston and Friends of Revere -- announced today they have called an official boycott of the Monday, August 11, Massachusetts Gaming Commission Host Community Meeting in Revere, MA.
"After months of trying to fight through an illegitimate, illegal process that has denied the people of East Boston the rule of law by denying our vote, our core groups are throwing our full weight behind the work to Repeal the Casino Deal across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," said No Eastie Casino spokesman Matt Cameron. "We are boycotting the corrupt, illegitimate sham of a hearing at the Mass Gaming Commission on August 11."
According to the Massachusetts gaming statute passed by our legislature and signed by Governor Deval Patrick, if a proposed casino is located in two communities, both communities must vote to allow the development of that casino to enable that proposal to move forward. On November 5, 2013, 56 percent of East Boston residents voted no to a proposed casino at Suffolk Downs. That proposed casino was to be built completely in East Boston on Suffolk Downs' property -- two-thirds of which is in East Boston. The people of Revere also voted on this proposal because the land was in both towns, and people recognized that Revere offered amenities which are statutorily considered part of a casino for the purposes of designating host community status.
Legally, the casino proposal at Suffolk Downs should then have died. However, in furtherance of a corrupt process, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission allowed Mohegan Sun to collude with Suffolk Downs to create the illusion that a proposed casino along the Revere-East Boston line does not require an East Boston vote. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission joined and promoted that collusion-even extending their deadline; even now, their decision will be based on incomplete information due to the failure of the Mohegan Sun-Suffolk Downs entity to file all the necessary, updated, accurate paperwork in a timely fashion. Together, this colluding group willfully withheld information for months that the Gaming Commission later agreed would likely have proven East Boston to be a host community; they called this information--a critical clause in a lease -- "a trade secret." When the City of Boston's attorneys pursued this information, the Gaming Commission -- both supposed watch dog and enabler -- communicated with Mohegan Sun, and somehow, the questionable "trade secret" lease clause was removed from the lease. This happened five months after the Gaming Commission had said Revere could have another vote, but East Boston would not have one.
As a result of this and other demonstrated irregularities in this Region A decision process, a complaint and request for investigation of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has been filed with the Commonwealth Inspector General's office.
Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Meanwhile, the Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials. Unfortunately, although 56 percent of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities. The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh. Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground. As grassroots organizations, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere do not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings. Many casino supporters, on the other hand, are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work.
Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Mass Gaming Commission. Meanwhile, the Mass Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials. Unfortunately, although 56% of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities. The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh. Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground. As a grassroots organization, No Eastie Casino does not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings (many casino supporters are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work).
"The people of East Boston stand firm in the belief that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has allowed this illegal violation of the rule of law because the corrupt casino industry has spent millions of dollars to encourage just this outcome," Cameron said. "We also strongly believe this flagrant violation of our vote would not be happening in a wealthier community. We also strongly believe that this Commonwealth was founded on principals of justice, fairness and sharing of the common wealth. We strongly believe this is not yet an aristocracy, but retains at least some semblance of democracy -- and will continue to do so if we continue to fight for it. We believe our fellow citizens, once duly educated about this corrupt and unfair process, will stand with us in voting to repeal this flawed legislation and restore a greater measure of democracy and fairness to this Commonwealth. This state has been a leader in recognizing the rights of many -- and we know, likewise, this state's good people will recognize the right of the people of East Boston to have a vote, to vote NO, and to have that vote carry the same weight as the vote of any other commonwealth community."
On August 11, 2014, the core group members from Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston, Friends of Revere and No Eastie Casino will be working diligently to advance the campaign to repeal this law. Should you have any questions, please contact us at the Repeal the Casino Deal headquarters in East Boston. Our work there will serve as our protest of the Mass Gaming Commission's sham hearing.
Source for this Press Release: Repeal the Casino Deal, 617-981-4177
Monday, July 28, 2014
Stand For Democracy and Don Berwick for Governor Campaigns Agree to Work Collaboratively in the Fight Against Casinos
Source Sunha Kim, (310) 710-3348, spk454@mail.harvard.edu
Leaders
from both Stand For Democracy and Don Berwick for Governor campaigns
met last week to discuss the repeal of the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act.
Both organizations have agreed to work collaboratively towards repealing
the commonwealth’s casino law and promoting Berwick’s stance as the
only candidate opposed to casinos and supporting the repeal. “We have
taken a close look at all of the gubernatorial candidates and their
stance on casinos in Massachusetts. Don Berwick’s position against
casinos is the only one in line with that of Stand For Democracy”, said
Pedro Morales, one of the founders of Stand For Democracy.
Stand
For Democracy is an organization that emanates from the successful 2013
anti-casino campaign in East Boston. “Don was inspired by the ability
of grassroots activists to take on powerful corporate interests in the
East Boston casino referendum. It is exciting to collaborate with some
of the leaders of that movement, and we look forward to working together
to promote Don’s position on this crucial issue around the state,” said
David Marsh of the Berwick campaign. A schedule of joint events will be
released shortly.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Basile Statement on Boston's Surrounding Community Agreement with Mohegan Sun
East Boston, MA (July 10, 2014) - Democratic State Rep. Carlo Basile released the following statement on the Surrounding Community Agreement Boston Mayor Marty Walsh signed today with Mohegan Sun:
"I am disappointed that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission insists on moving forward with issuing casino licenses before the people get a chance to vote this fall, but since they insist on moving forward, I am confident that Mayor Walsh got the best deal he could for the people of East Boston.
"There are many points within the agreement that will benefit our community, but I am especially happy to hear of the $30M which will spent in East Boston specifically. I am also happy with the proposal to retain the voice of the people and the call for another vote should there be any gaming development proposed in East Boston.
"I want to thank Mayor Walsh for his leadership on this difficult issue and for protecting the interests and preserving the voice of the people of East Boston."
Source: Kevin Franck via email
"I am disappointed that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission insists on moving forward with issuing casino licenses before the people get a chance to vote this fall, but since they insist on moving forward, I am confident that Mayor Walsh got the best deal he could for the people of East Boston.
"There are many points within the agreement that will benefit our community, but I am especially happy to hear of the $30M which will spent in East Boston specifically. I am also happy with the proposal to retain the voice of the people and the call for another vote should there be any gaming development proposed in East Boston.
"I want to thank Mayor Walsh for his leadership on this difficult issue and for protecting the interests and preserving the voice of the people of East Boston."
Source: Kevin Franck via email
Friday, June 27, 2014
Celeste Myers, Candidate for state Representative, Statement on SJC casino ruling, Revere hearing
The following was submitted by Celeste Myers dated 6/25/2014:
"We, the people, are the winners and beneficiaries of yesterday's ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts that allows voters to decide in November whether or not to repeal the 2011 casino gambling law. Regardless of how you feel about casino gambling, this was an ill-conceived law from the start, a reality born out in a process marked with many missteps, a lack of transparency, and even the occasional end-run around the law.
The events in Eastern Massachusetts since last November's vote in East Boston and Revere should serve as exhibit A for the brokenness of this legislation. After being defeated at the polls in East Boston, the casino proposal for Suffolk Downs was given new life by the Gaming Commission to proceed as a "Revere-only" project. Even our local elected officials, and later our new mayor, wrote letters of objection to the commission's ruling vowing to defend Eastie residents' votes. The Mayor sought host community status for a "revised project" that has every bit as much of an impact on the the people of East Boston as the one we voted down in November. Last night, in Revere, residents and leaders of impacted areas had a final opportunity to speak out about this project before the commission decides between the two Eastern Massachusetts casino proposals.
Not a single local elected official (or any of their aides) representing Boston, let alone heavily impacted East Boston, showed up.
When I am your representative, I pledge to work tirelessly for you. When an opportunity arises to use my position to defend my neighbors or my neighborhood, I will not balk. My number one priority is the community, and I promise to show my dedication not only with words -- but action as well.
We can all celebrate that democracy will shine in November, when we have the opportunity to repeal a law that threatens both the Commonwealth and our neighborhood. While I do not know how residents of the Commonwealth will vote, I fully support their ability to do so. The stakes could not be higher."
Source: Celeste Myers
"We, the people, are the winners and beneficiaries of yesterday's ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts that allows voters to decide in November whether or not to repeal the 2011 casino gambling law. Regardless of how you feel about casino gambling, this was an ill-conceived law from the start, a reality born out in a process marked with many missteps, a lack of transparency, and even the occasional end-run around the law.
The events in Eastern Massachusetts since last November's vote in East Boston and Revere should serve as exhibit A for the brokenness of this legislation. After being defeated at the polls in East Boston, the casino proposal for Suffolk Downs was given new life by the Gaming Commission to proceed as a "Revere-only" project. Even our local elected officials, and later our new mayor, wrote letters of objection to the commission's ruling vowing to defend Eastie residents' votes. The Mayor sought host community status for a "revised project" that has every bit as much of an impact on the the people of East Boston as the one we voted down in November. Last night, in Revere, residents and leaders of impacted areas had a final opportunity to speak out about this project before the commission decides between the two Eastern Massachusetts casino proposals.
Not a single local elected official (or any of their aides) representing Boston, let alone heavily impacted East Boston, showed up.
When I am your representative, I pledge to work tirelessly for you. When an opportunity arises to use my position to defend my neighbors or my neighborhood, I will not balk. My number one priority is the community, and I promise to show my dedication not only with words -- but action as well.
We can all celebrate that democracy will shine in November, when we have the opportunity to repeal a law that threatens both the Commonwealth and our neighborhood. While I do not know how residents of the Commonwealth will vote, I fully support their ability to do so. The stakes could not be higher."
Source: Celeste Myers
Friday, February 21, 2014
Revere Casino Opponents Plan March, From Parish Church To City Hall on Sunday, Feb 25
(REVERE, MA) With the Feb. 25th casino referendum just days away, Don’t Gamble on Revere and Friends of Revere have called for a public march this Sunday, Feb. 23rd, from Immaculate Conception Parish Church to Revere City Hall.
The Salvadorian Marching Peace Band will be leading the lively procession, and a brief rally in front of Revere’s City Hall will include a program of speakers encouraging Revere residents to vote ‘No’ on Feb. 25 and to not be intimidated by pro-casino forces.
“In the span of thirty years” explains Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor at First Congregational Church and one of the organizers of Sunday’s march, “Revere has gone from being one of the least diverse cities in the state to perhaps the most diverse. Many of our residents immigrated to the United States from countries where opposition to the political establishment simply did not exist, and we want to assure our friends and neighbors that they are free to vote their conscience next Tuesday, regardless of official voices urging them to support the proposed casino.”
“Predatory gambling is simply not in the best interest of our community,” states Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Parish, where Sunday’s march will commence, “and Tuesday’s vote is far from a done deal.”
Sunday’s march starts at 1 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish Church (127 Winthrop Avenue), and will end with a rally at Revere City Hall (281 Broadway).
The Salvadorian Marching Peace Band will be leading the lively procession, and a brief rally in front of Revere’s City Hall will include a program of speakers encouraging Revere residents to vote ‘No’ on Feb. 25 and to not be intimidated by pro-casino forces.
“In the span of thirty years” explains Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor at First Congregational Church and one of the organizers of Sunday’s march, “Revere has gone from being one of the least diverse cities in the state to perhaps the most diverse. Many of our residents immigrated to the United States from countries where opposition to the political establishment simply did not exist, and we want to assure our friends and neighbors that they are free to vote their conscience next Tuesday, regardless of official voices urging them to support the proposed casino.”
“Predatory gambling is simply not in the best interest of our community,” states Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Parish, where Sunday’s march will commence, “and Tuesday’s vote is far from a done deal.”
Sunday’s march starts at 1 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish Church (127 Winthrop Avenue), and will end with a rally at Revere City Hall (281 Broadway).
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Presser at 3 pm today: EB & Revere Communities Unite On City Line to Oppose Mohegan Sun Casino at Suffolk Downs
Neighboring community groups to hold joint press conference on the Revere/Boston city line in advance of Mohegan Sun's presentation to Massachusetts Gaming Commission
BOSTON, MA (January 21, 2014) - Today Don't Gamble on Revere, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, and No Eastie Casino, will hold a joint press conference and public demonstration at 3pm on the Revere/East Boston city line to denounce the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's disregard for residents' clear "no" vote from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5 and highlight the contents of a comment letter to be submitted to the Commission (MGC) in advance of its January 22 meeting with Mohegan Sun.
"A casino at Suffolk Downs is a casino at Suffolk Downs, and shifting this development a few feet over the city line into Revere doesn't change anything," said Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's volunteer legal counsel and an East Boston resident. "As anyone who is familiar with this unique site must recognize, the city of Boston is now being forced to host a guest that we have already dis-invited."
"As knowledge of traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems due to casinos come to light, Revere opposition to a casino at Suffolk Downs is growing," said Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don't Gamble on Revere. "The lack of a clear host community agreement to mitigate these impacts makes us doubt that the City of Revere and Suffolk Downs truly have Revere's interests in mind. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
In advance of the press conference, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere will submit a joint letter to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission registering their disapproval of the gaming application process and noting that more time is needed for Boston's new administration to make an informed decision.
"Mohegan Sun has filed an incomplete application with missing and outdated information, and is now trying to keep critical details relating to the site plan and their proposed land use confidential. This development will forever change the character and futures of East Boston and Revere, and we deserve to see everything that has already been made available to the Gaming Commission. " Cameron said.
For details on the press conference location, please contact Joe Catricala at 781-727-6099 or Celeste Myers at 617-913-3332.
About Don't Gamble on Revere
Don't Gamble on Revere is a group of citizens concerned about the future of Revere. We know that Revere has come a long way over the years and we don't want to lose all of the progress that we have made. We are an official municipal ballot question committee opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs and a united all-volunteer force standing against the proposed casino in Revere.
About No Eastie Casino
No Eastie Casino is a grassroots effort led by local, all-volunteer residents opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs. Our goal is to build a strong base of East Boston residents that represents the full diversity of our community; shares a common vision for a vibrant, healthy, family-friendly future for East Boston; and is united against a casino at Suffolk Downs.
Source:
Contacts: Joe Catricala & Celeste Myers
BOSTON, MA (January 21, 2014) - Today Don't Gamble on Revere, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, and No Eastie Casino, will hold a joint press conference and public demonstration at 3pm on the Revere/East Boston city line to denounce the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's disregard for residents' clear "no" vote from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5 and highlight the contents of a comment letter to be submitted to the Commission (MGC) in advance of its January 22 meeting with Mohegan Sun.
"A casino at Suffolk Downs is a casino at Suffolk Downs, and shifting this development a few feet over the city line into Revere doesn't change anything," said Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's volunteer legal counsel and an East Boston resident. "As anyone who is familiar with this unique site must recognize, the city of Boston is now being forced to host a guest that we have already dis-invited."
"As knowledge of traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems due to casinos come to light, Revere opposition to a casino at Suffolk Downs is growing," said Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don't Gamble on Revere. "The lack of a clear host community agreement to mitigate these impacts makes us doubt that the City of Revere and Suffolk Downs truly have Revere's interests in mind. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
In advance of the press conference, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere will submit a joint letter to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission registering their disapproval of the gaming application process and noting that more time is needed for Boston's new administration to make an informed decision.
"Mohegan Sun has filed an incomplete application with missing and outdated information, and is now trying to keep critical details relating to the site plan and their proposed land use confidential. This development will forever change the character and futures of East Boston and Revere, and we deserve to see everything that has already been made available to the Gaming Commission. " Cameron said.
For details on the press conference location, please contact Joe Catricala at 781-727-6099 or Celeste Myers at 617-913-3332.
About Don't Gamble on Revere
Don't Gamble on Revere is a group of citizens concerned about the future of Revere. We know that Revere has come a long way over the years and we don't want to lose all of the progress that we have made. We are an official municipal ballot question committee opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs and a united all-volunteer force standing against the proposed casino in Revere.
About No Eastie Casino
No Eastie Casino is a grassroots effort led by local, all-volunteer residents opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs. Our goal is to build a strong base of East Boston residents that represents the full diversity of our community; shares a common vision for a vibrant, healthy, family-friendly future for East Boston; and is united against a casino at Suffolk Downs.
Source:
Contacts: Joe Catricala & Celeste Myers
Monday, January 13, 2014
The Walsh Response to MGC: City will protect Eastie, C-Town residents
City of Boston Files Petitions with Mass. Gaming Commission, Preserves City’s Rights to Both Host and Surrounding Community Status, Compels Information Sharing with Communities
Action Required to Meet Tonight’s Gaming Commission Deadline; Mayor Walsh Reaffirms Commitment to Protect the Interests of the Residents of Charlestown, East Boston and the City of Boston
The City of Boston today petitioned the Massachusetts Gaming Commission in order to preserve the interests of the City, its residents, businesses and visitors, in the development of proposed Mohegan Sun and Wynn resort destination casinos. The petition preserves the City’s right to assert host community status for both proposals, without waiving its rights to surrounding community status. The petition also asks the Gaming Commission to compel both proponents to share information with the communities that would be most impacted by their proposals.
“We believe this unrestricted route is the best path forward to protect the residents of East Boston and Charlestown, and the City of Boston as a whole,” Mayor Walsh said. “These applicants must have a more open dialogue with the people of Boston, particularly those neighborhoods that will be most impacted. At any time, if the facts indicate that Boston is a host city, we preserve its right to withdraw from surrounding community negotiations.”
The City also petitioned the Gaming Commission, in part, to reconsider its previous denial of Boston’s request for an extension. On Thursday, January 9, the City requested an extension of 30 days from the Commission deadline, in order to review 43,000 pages of documents provided to the City with just five business days to review. The vast majority of the documents were provided to the City for the first time and warrant careful review and analysis. The City’s reasonable request for an extension was denied by the Gaming Commission on the afternoon of Friday, January 10. The City had requested the extension in order to review and assess the documents; request and obtain additional information, clarification and supplementation of the filings; and to receive detailed input from the proponents.
While preserving its rights to host status, the City’s Petition also asked the Gaming Commission to have both the Wynn and Mohegan Sun applicants supplement their filings with the Commission, and if they fail to do that, for the Commission to designate Boston a surrounding community.
The petition also asked the Gaming Commission to compel both Mohegan Sun and Wynn to cooperate fully with the City, providing any and all information requested by the City so that it may best evaluate its status as host or surrounding community and properly evaluate the two proposals in relation to the City.
-30-
Source: Mayor's Office
Action Required to Meet Tonight’s Gaming Commission Deadline; Mayor Walsh Reaffirms Commitment to Protect the Interests of the Residents of Charlestown, East Boston and the City of Boston
The City of Boston today petitioned the Massachusetts Gaming Commission in order to preserve the interests of the City, its residents, businesses and visitors, in the development of proposed Mohegan Sun and Wynn resort destination casinos. The petition preserves the City’s right to assert host community status for both proposals, without waiving its rights to surrounding community status. The petition also asks the Gaming Commission to compel both proponents to share information with the communities that would be most impacted by their proposals.
“We believe this unrestricted route is the best path forward to protect the residents of East Boston and Charlestown, and the City of Boston as a whole,” Mayor Walsh said. “These applicants must have a more open dialogue with the people of Boston, particularly those neighborhoods that will be most impacted. At any time, if the facts indicate that Boston is a host city, we preserve its right to withdraw from surrounding community negotiations.”
The City also petitioned the Gaming Commission, in part, to reconsider its previous denial of Boston’s request for an extension. On Thursday, January 9, the City requested an extension of 30 days from the Commission deadline, in order to review 43,000 pages of documents provided to the City with just five business days to review. The vast majority of the documents were provided to the City for the first time and warrant careful review and analysis. The City’s reasonable request for an extension was denied by the Gaming Commission on the afternoon of Friday, January 10. The City had requested the extension in order to review and assess the documents; request and obtain additional information, clarification and supplementation of the filings; and to receive detailed input from the proponents.
While preserving its rights to host status, the City’s Petition also asked the Gaming Commission to have both the Wynn and Mohegan Sun applicants supplement their filings with the Commission, and if they fail to do that, for the Commission to designate Boston a surrounding community.
The petition also asked the Gaming Commission to compel both Mohegan Sun and Wynn to cooperate fully with the City, providing any and all information requested by the City so that it may best evaluate its status as host or surrounding community and properly evaluate the two proposals in relation to the City.
-30-
Source: Mayor's Office
Supporting Walsh, No Eastie Casino steps up opposition to MGC ruling: "Revere Casino is Illegal; East Boston is a Host Community"
NO EASTIE CASINO STEP UP THE PRESSURE!
To our friends and neighbors:
Thank you for your persistence in fighting back as the Mass Gaming Commission seeks to silence our voices and move ahead with an illegitimate process. As you may know, Mayor Marty Walsh asked the gaming commission for one month to allow his legal team to review the lengthy host community agreement to determine if Boston is a host community (as, in the case of the proposed Revere casino, we believe
research will prove it is) or a surrounding community (as Mohegan Sun argues).
The Gaming Commission -- which granted the extension to Suffolk Downs to allow them to rework this proposal and have a new vote -- denied Mayor Walsh's request. They gave him until Monday to agree to begin negotiations as a surrounding community. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!
Mayor Walsh and his legal team have taken the right approach to date. The decision and statement they make today, Monday, is a critical one. We must ask them to speak out against the unfair ruling of the Mass Gaming Commission--and to put the Commission on notice that the city of Boston will not tolerate this. Mayor Walsh is our new mayor; he promised in his inaugural address to listen to the people of Boston
and to have open and transparent government. We applaud this commitment. He must listen to the people of East Boston and do everything in his power to ensure the vote we took is respected.
Source: No Eastie Casino 1/13/14
To our friends and neighbors:
Thank you for your persistence in fighting back as the Mass Gaming Commission seeks to silence our voices and move ahead with an illegitimate process. As you may know, Mayor Marty Walsh asked the gaming commission for one month to allow his legal team to review the lengthy host community agreement to determine if Boston is a host community (as, in the case of the proposed Revere casino, we believe
research will prove it is) or a surrounding community (as Mohegan Sun argues).
The Gaming Commission -- which granted the extension to Suffolk Downs to allow them to rework this proposal and have a new vote -- denied Mayor Walsh's request. They gave him until Monday to agree to begin negotiations as a surrounding community. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!
Mayor Walsh and his legal team have taken the right approach to date. The decision and statement they make today, Monday, is a critical one. We must ask them to speak out against the unfair ruling of the Mass Gaming Commission--and to put the Commission on notice that the city of Boston will not tolerate this. Mayor Walsh is our new mayor; he promised in his inaugural address to listen to the people of Boston
and to have open and transparent government. We applaud this commitment. He must listen to the people of East Boston and do everything in his power to ensure the vote we took is respected.
Source: No Eastie Casino 1/13/14
Sunday, January 12, 2014
News: Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
This just in from Don't Gamble on Revere, the group organizing opposition to the Revere casino on the upcoming vote in Revere.
Source: Don't Gamble on Revere 1/12/2014
Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
Revere, MA – Revere residents who are opposed to the proposed Mohegan Sun casino at Suffolk Downs have joined together to form the group, “Don’t Gamble on Revere,” a volunteer-led official ballot question committee asserting that residents of the historic, family-oriented city should always have a say in what happens to the future of their community. The group exists to convince Revere neighbors that voting NO at the Feb. 25 referendum will protect Revere from the invasion of a major corporation that would dictate a future that best suits its own gains rather than considering Revere’s.
"We’re gaining support daily from Revere residents who are opposed to the casino," says Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don’t Gamble on Revere, "Many residents are concerned about how a casino in their backyards could impact their families. I’ve heard a number of residents say they would move out of Revere if a casino comes. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
Specifically, Catricala points to impacts such as increased traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems as reasons to oppose the development. Additionally, the group believes the arrival of a casino will decrease property values and raise taxes.
"The host community agreement does not provide the city with enough money to pay for the impact a casino will have on Revere," Catricala adds. "The proposed casino will kill the local economy by removing jobs and cause local businesses to close. When residents begin to gamble their paychecks away at the proposed casino, how will they have any money left to spend on the local economy?"
Don’t Gamble on Revere points to casinos elsewhere whose intent is to keep customers on-site rather than encouraging them to visit local businesses. Revere’s Broadway businesses cannot compete with the proposed casino’s glitzy restaurants, spas, and shops, the group says.
As the Feb. 25 vote approaches, Revere casino opposition is gaining momentum. Don’t Gamble on Revere leadership say the group will reach out to voters through telephone calls, mailings, door-to-door visits, and informative community events. Numerous families have put up "vote no" signs in yards and windows, and volunteer meetings occur each Tuesday at 6:30 PM until the day of the vote.
"Don’t Gamble on Revere is concerned about the future generation of Revere," says Don’t Gamble on Revere spokesperson Catricala. "We agree with casino backers that Revere needs revitalization, jobs, and additional funding to improve community services, but the difference lies in the solution. A casino is not the answer to improving the city of Revere. The long-term effects far outweigh any short-term benefits that a casino could bring to Revere. It is not worth it. Revere can do better."
Source: Don't Gamble on Revere 1/12/2014
Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
Revere, MA – Revere residents who are opposed to the proposed Mohegan Sun casino at Suffolk Downs have joined together to form the group, “Don’t Gamble on Revere,” a volunteer-led official ballot question committee asserting that residents of the historic, family-oriented city should always have a say in what happens to the future of their community. The group exists to convince Revere neighbors that voting NO at the Feb. 25 referendum will protect Revere from the invasion of a major corporation that would dictate a future that best suits its own gains rather than considering Revere’s.
"We’re gaining support daily from Revere residents who are opposed to the casino," says Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don’t Gamble on Revere, "Many residents are concerned about how a casino in their backyards could impact their families. I’ve heard a number of residents say they would move out of Revere if a casino comes. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
Specifically, Catricala points to impacts such as increased traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems as reasons to oppose the development. Additionally, the group believes the arrival of a casino will decrease property values and raise taxes.
"The host community agreement does not provide the city with enough money to pay for the impact a casino will have on Revere," Catricala adds. "The proposed casino will kill the local economy by removing jobs and cause local businesses to close. When residents begin to gamble their paychecks away at the proposed casino, how will they have any money left to spend on the local economy?"
Don’t Gamble on Revere points to casinos elsewhere whose intent is to keep customers on-site rather than encouraging them to visit local businesses. Revere’s Broadway businesses cannot compete with the proposed casino’s glitzy restaurants, spas, and shops, the group says.
As the Feb. 25 vote approaches, Revere casino opposition is gaining momentum. Don’t Gamble on Revere leadership say the group will reach out to voters through telephone calls, mailings, door-to-door visits, and informative community events. Numerous families have put up "vote no" signs in yards and windows, and volunteer meetings occur each Tuesday at 6:30 PM until the day of the vote.
"Don’t Gamble on Revere is concerned about the future generation of Revere," says Don’t Gamble on Revere spokesperson Catricala. "We agree with casino backers that Revere needs revitalization, jobs, and additional funding to improve community services, but the difference lies in the solution. A casino is not the answer to improving the city of Revere. The long-term effects far outweigh any short-term benefits that a casino could bring to Revere. It is not worth it. Revere can do better."
Thursday, December 12, 2013
A vision for Suffolk Downs: Former Secretary of Transportation and Local Urban Development Experts Announce New Vision for Suffolk Downs Site
This just in from EastBoston2020:
Community group offers five guiding principles to Boston elected officials for development on Suffolk Downs site since casino was voted down
(BOSTON, Mass., Dec. 10, 2013) -- Led by former Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation Jim Aloisi, a largely East Boston-based group of urban planners, architects, public infrastructure experts, and representatives of various community groups today released an alternative vision to the proposed casino at Suffolk Downs that was voted down as a result of the November 5 election.
The newly-formed group’s two-page guidance titled “Overarching Principles For Development in East Boston” outlines five principles by which all future significant development proposals in East Boston – and Suffolk Downs in particular – should be measured. The principles, including job creation, community inclusion and a transparent process, environmental impact, transit-oriented development, and economic feasibility, present a framework to ensure that this critical and unique site is developed in a way that enhances quality of life, job creation and return on investment for all residents of Boston and surrounding communities.
"Although Suffolk Downs is privately owned, it is supported by a highway and transit system owned and operated by the state and paid for by the taxpayers of Massachusetts," said Aloisi, a native of East Boston and whose parents still live in the neighborhood. "It is only fair and just that any major development on its grounds be thoroughly vetted by local citizenry and surrounding communities. We hope these principles, which express a positive and forward looking vision for the future of this site and community will be embraced by a broad spectrum of state and local decision makers."
As many real estate and other investment experts contend, the Suffolk Downs site offers a wealth of development possibilities beyond a casino. For example, Banker and Tradesman recently noted that "At a time when home and condo prices are soaring out of reach for middle class families in Boston, Suffolk's 110 or so Boston acres are a huge potential asset, ground zero for the Hub's next big mixed-use neighborhood of shops and homes." (1)
Desirable factors such as quick access to downtown Boston, Logan Airport and the emerging Innovation District in South Boston via the Blue Line and soon the Silver Line, as well as a shared economic center for the communities of East Boston, Revere and Winthrop make Suffolk Downs an exceptional candidate for a mix of housing and commercial development opportunities, according to the group. Also, the adjacent Belle Isle Marsh provides abundant green space and offers potential connections to the East Boston Greenway.
A full version of the “Overarching Principles For Development in East Boston” can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/eastboston2020/. For more information, please contact east.boston.visioning@gmail.com
(1) Banker and Tradesman, "Forget Gambling: Suffolk Downs Has Mixed-Use Development Potential" Sunday, November 17, 2013 http://www.bankerandtradesman.com/news157396.html
Monday, December 9, 2013
Latest: No Eastie Casino Calls on Massachusetts Gaming Commission To Uphold Expanded Gaming Act and Declare Revere-Only Casino Illegal
Download the full PDF version of No Eastie Casino's comments
In advance of the Commission's public meeting
BOSTON, Mass., Dec. 9, 2013 - Today, No Eastie Casino, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, again registered its disapproval with a plan to push forward with a Mohegan Sun casino on the Revere side of the track's property -- despite a clear "no" from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5.
No Eastie Casino is joined by all of East Boston's elected officials and the editors of theBoston Globe in declaring the completely new plan for a Revere gaming license advanced by former applicant Suffolk Downs and the city of Revere as an affront to the letter, spirit, and clear intent of the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act. As stated in formal comments submitted to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, No Eastie Casino demands that the City of Revere and the applicants follow the law as written. Full public confidence in the casino licensing process requires nothing less.
"We believe that public confidence stands in imminent jeopardy of irreparable harm for as long as this Commission continues to consider the gaming establishment presently proposed for development in Revere in the absence of a new host community agreement and referendum, both of which are required by law," writes Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's general counsel, in the group's comments to the Commission.
The comments go on to lay out a thorough case for why the Commission must deny Mohegan Sun's request to move forward with casino plans on the Suffolk Downs property in Revere without a new host community agreement and vote. Countering the narrative put forth by officials from Revere, Suffolk Downs and Mohegan Sun -- essentially that the affirmative vote on Nov. 5 was a blank check for casino anywhere in the city -- No Eastie Casino asserts that the revised casino proposal bears no resemblance to the deal Revere officials negotiated and that voters approved. Suffolk Downs is no longer an applicant for the casino
license on its property, nor is horse racing directly tied to casino operations -- two assumptions voters heard repeatedly throughout Suffolk Downs' campaign leading up to the Nov. 5 referendum.
"No one has voted on the plan that Mohegan Sun is presenting. The players, the project and the details have changed," said Celeste Myers, co-chair of No Eastie Casino. "We cannot assign votes to an entirely different project that the public has not considered."
Proof the Mohegan Sun Casino Proposal is Not What Revere Voters Approved on Nov. 5
As a supplement to its written comments, No Eastie Casino also submitted to the Commission a collection of video clips showing Revere and Suffolk Downs officials contradicting the narrative they've been telling of the casino proposal since the referendum. In one clip, dated Oct. 19, Revere Mayor Dan Rizzo is seen telling constituents that Suffolk Downs' plans called for "not one ounce" of construction within Revere city limits. Several video clips show Suffolk Downs Chief Operating Officer Chip Tuttle telling audiences prior to Nov. 5 that Suffolk Downs was the entity seeking a casino license, and "has been all along." And in another clip, Suffolk Downs co-owner Joseph O'Donnell, speaking the day the track signed its host community agreement with the City of Boston, appears to say the track would respect the decision East Boston voters make at the polls on Nov. 5.
"The community, East Boston, will make that decision," O'Donnell, the a co-owner at the track for more than 27 years, said at the City Hall press conference. "That's why they'll have an election, and that's a decision that's up to them. Far be it from me to tell them what they can do. We'll live with whatever that answer is."
Within minutes of word that East Boston had resoundingly voted down the Suffolk Downs casino plan, however, track officials were already talking to the press about plans to develop the casino on the Revere side of its property. But the law required that the proposal earn an affirmative vote in both communities to advance, and Myers said the democratic process may be at stake if the Commission chooses not to respect her neighborhood's vote.
In addition to its legal analysis of a revised Mohegan Sun casino, No Eastie Casino in its written comments to the Commission also called on Chairman Stephen Crosby to recuse himself from any further deliberations or decisions pertaining to a casino in Eastern Massachusetts. Last week, the Boston Globe reported that Crosby had waited more than 10 months to disclose a decades-long personal and business connection to the co-owner of the Everett parcel where Steve Wynn has proposed a casino. Crosby also has admitted to being a longtime acquaintance of Suffolk Downs' O'Donnell, with whom he played football at Harvard.
In calling for Crosby to recuse himself from Region A casino deliberations, the group refers to a statute in the Massachusetts General Law that prohibits even the appearance of impropriety or bias with regard to public officials.
"We believe it is imperative that Mr. Crosby comply with the terms of the conflicts law and make public a letter outlining in detail why no reasonable person can conclude that his participation meets the test of the law," No Eastie Casino's comment states. "That letter should be approved by his appointing authority, prior to his taking any further action on this matter."
The Gaming Commission will take up the issue of a Mohegan Sun casino in Revere at its meeting Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m., in room 151 of the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Casino opponents from Revere and East Boston will be present at the meeting, as will spokespeople from No Eastie Casino.
In advance of the Commission's public meeting
BOSTON, Mass., Dec. 9, 2013 - Today, No Eastie Casino, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, again registered its disapproval with a plan to push forward with a Mohegan Sun casino on the Revere side of the track's property -- despite a clear "no" from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5.
No Eastie Casino is joined by all of East Boston's elected officials and the editors of theBoston Globe in declaring the completely new plan for a Revere gaming license advanced by former applicant Suffolk Downs and the city of Revere as an affront to the letter, spirit, and clear intent of the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act. As stated in formal comments submitted to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, No Eastie Casino demands that the City of Revere and the applicants follow the law as written. Full public confidence in the casino licensing process requires nothing less.
"We believe that public confidence stands in imminent jeopardy of irreparable harm for as long as this Commission continues to consider the gaming establishment presently proposed for development in Revere in the absence of a new host community agreement and referendum, both of which are required by law," writes Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's general counsel, in the group's comments to the Commission.
The comments go on to lay out a thorough case for why the Commission must deny Mohegan Sun's request to move forward with casino plans on the Suffolk Downs property in Revere without a new host community agreement and vote. Countering the narrative put forth by officials from Revere, Suffolk Downs and Mohegan Sun -- essentially that the affirmative vote on Nov. 5 was a blank check for casino anywhere in the city -- No Eastie Casino asserts that the revised casino proposal bears no resemblance to the deal Revere officials negotiated and that voters approved. Suffolk Downs is no longer an applicant for the casino
license on its property, nor is horse racing directly tied to casino operations -- two assumptions voters heard repeatedly throughout Suffolk Downs' campaign leading up to the Nov. 5 referendum.
"No one has voted on the plan that Mohegan Sun is presenting. The players, the project and the details have changed," said Celeste Myers, co-chair of No Eastie Casino. "We cannot assign votes to an entirely different project that the public has not considered."
Proof the Mohegan Sun Casino Proposal is Not What Revere Voters Approved on Nov. 5
As a supplement to its written comments, No Eastie Casino also submitted to the Commission a collection of video clips showing Revere and Suffolk Downs officials contradicting the narrative they've been telling of the casino proposal since the referendum. In one clip, dated Oct. 19, Revere Mayor Dan Rizzo is seen telling constituents that Suffolk Downs' plans called for "not one ounce" of construction within Revere city limits. Several video clips show Suffolk Downs Chief Operating Officer Chip Tuttle telling audiences prior to Nov. 5 that Suffolk Downs was the entity seeking a casino license, and "has been all along." And in another clip, Suffolk Downs co-owner Joseph O'Donnell, speaking the day the track signed its host community agreement with the City of Boston, appears to say the track would respect the decision East Boston voters make at the polls on Nov. 5.
"The community, East Boston, will make that decision," O'Donnell, the a co-owner at the track for more than 27 years, said at the City Hall press conference. "That's why they'll have an election, and that's a decision that's up to them. Far be it from me to tell them what they can do. We'll live with whatever that answer is."
Within minutes of word that East Boston had resoundingly voted down the Suffolk Downs casino plan, however, track officials were already talking to the press about plans to develop the casino on the Revere side of its property. But the law required that the proposal earn an affirmative vote in both communities to advance, and Myers said the democratic process may be at stake if the Commission chooses not to respect her neighborhood's vote.
In addition to its legal analysis of a revised Mohegan Sun casino, No Eastie Casino in its written comments to the Commission also called on Chairman Stephen Crosby to recuse himself from any further deliberations or decisions pertaining to a casino in Eastern Massachusetts. Last week, the Boston Globe reported that Crosby had waited more than 10 months to disclose a decades-long personal and business connection to the co-owner of the Everett parcel where Steve Wynn has proposed a casino. Crosby also has admitted to being a longtime acquaintance of Suffolk Downs' O'Donnell, with whom he played football at Harvard.
In calling for Crosby to recuse himself from Region A casino deliberations, the group refers to a statute in the Massachusetts General Law that prohibits even the appearance of impropriety or bias with regard to public officials.
"We believe it is imperative that Mr. Crosby comply with the terms of the conflicts law and make public a letter outlining in detail why no reasonable person can conclude that his participation meets the test of the law," No Eastie Casino's comment states. "That letter should be approved by his appointing authority, prior to his taking any further action on this matter."
The Gaming Commission will take up the issue of a Mohegan Sun casino in Revere at its meeting Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m., in room 151 of the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Casino opponents from Revere and East Boston will be present at the meeting, as will spokespeople from No Eastie Casino.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Sen. Petruccelli's letter to gaming commission on the "Revere" plan
Just in to eastboston.com.
The two-page letter from state Senator Anthony Petruccelli to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on Suffolk Downs' Revere-only proposal. Related story can be found here.
November 20, 2013
Stephen Crosby, Chairman
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
84 State Street, Suite 720
Boston, MA 02109
Dear Chairman Crosby and Commissioners:
On behalf of my constituents of the First Suffolk and Middlesex District, I write today to express my increasing concern over recent efforts by Sterling Suffolk Racecourse, LLC (“Sterling Suffolk”) to proceed with the resort casino development originally proposed for the 161-acre land parcel at Suffolk Downs in East Boston (the “Project”). In a letter to the Commission, dated November 13, 2013, Sterling Suffolk expressed their intentions to move forward with the Project despite the unsuccessful ballot question in East Boston. Indeed, Sterling Suffolk has proposed to modify the Project’s development plan so that it fits entirely within the 52-acre Revere parcel at Suffolk Downs. To do so, in my opinion, undermines the spirit and intent of the Commonwealth’s Expanded Gaming Act of 2011 (the “Gaming Act”).
When the State Legislature crafted and passed the Gaming Act, my colleagues and I carefully drafted provisions pertaining to host community agreements and the conduct of an election. M.G.L. c.23K, §15 specifically requires an applicant, as a prerequisite to filing an RFA-2 application (“Phase 2”), to receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election in the host community. (See also 205 CMR 124.00.) Also, where a proposed gaming establishment is situated in more than one community, as is the case with the Project:
The applicant shall execute an agreement with each host community, or a joint agreement with both communities, and receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election held in each host community in favor of such a license. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
Taken together, the intent of these provisions is clear. Only favorable referendum results in both host communities allow the applicant to proceed to Phase 2. That did not happen with Sterling Suffolk’s Project. Because one host community voted in the negative, the Project proposed for Suffolk Downs is dead. If Sterling Suffolk wishes to proceed with an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel, then under the terms of the Gaming Act:
[They] shall not submit a new request to the governing body within 180 days of the last election; and provided further, that a new request shall be accompanied by an agreement between the applicant and host community signed after the previous election. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
However, in their November 13th letter to the Commission, Sterling Suffolk asserted that, regardless of the November 5th election results, Revere’s host community agreement remains in effect and need only be modified to reflect a shift to Suffolk Down’s Revere parcel. Sterling Suffolk does not interpret the referendums to have been votes about the Project (and host community agreements) itself; rather they view the referendums as votes on whether Suffolk Down could be developed for a casino at all.
While it is true that Revere and East Boston voted on land use, it is also unquestionable that the host community agreements were essential to the voting process. All ballots required, and did in fact contain, “a fair, concise summary of the host community agreement.” 205 CMR 124.05. My colleagues and I in the Legislature recognized that it was imperative to ensure that Massachusetts residents in an impacted community have adequate notice of, and be well-informed about, any casino proposal prior to voting. Accordingly, the Gaming Act specifically requires a host community agreement to be made public, and that host and surrounding communities have ample opportunity to weigh the potential impacts on local businesses, traffic, jobs, as well as public safety.
Furthermore, it is false to argue that an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel is anything but a new proposal, which would require a new host community agreement and referendum under the provisions of M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13). Any proposed project development on the Revere parcel would undoubtedly look very different from that which voters reviewed prior to November 5th. Buildings and parking lots would need to be relocated, not to mention the racetrack and stables. Such changes materially alter the Project as it was initially proposed. In effect, this undermine the Gaming Act’s requirements for transparency and notice that ensure members of the impacted communities, including myself, have adequate time to weigh the merits of a proposal.
I understand why Sterling Suffolk wishes to pursue an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel. As an organization, they’ve invested a great deal of time, effort, and money to see the Suffolk Downs Project to fruition. I, too, was disappointed that the Project failed to receive the two affirmative referendum results needed to proceed to Phase 2. I believed, and still believe, that a casino has great potential to rejuvenate communities within my District. Nevertheless, the Commission cannot allow a gaming applicant to circumvent the process required by the Gaming Act merely because the results were disappointing.
I appreciate the opportunity to state my position to the Commission, and request the Commission’s clarification on the status of Sterling Suffolk’s application. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at my office.
Sincerely,
ANTHONY PETRUCCELLI
State Senator
First Suffolk and Middlesex District
The two-page letter from state Senator Anthony Petruccelli to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on Suffolk Downs' Revere-only proposal. Related story can be found here.
November 20, 2013
Stephen Crosby, Chairman
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
84 State Street, Suite 720
Boston, MA 02109
Dear Chairman Crosby and Commissioners:
On behalf of my constituents of the First Suffolk and Middlesex District, I write today to express my increasing concern over recent efforts by Sterling Suffolk Racecourse, LLC (“Sterling Suffolk”) to proceed with the resort casino development originally proposed for the 161-acre land parcel at Suffolk Downs in East Boston (the “Project”). In a letter to the Commission, dated November 13, 2013, Sterling Suffolk expressed their intentions to move forward with the Project despite the unsuccessful ballot question in East Boston. Indeed, Sterling Suffolk has proposed to modify the Project’s development plan so that it fits entirely within the 52-acre Revere parcel at Suffolk Downs. To do so, in my opinion, undermines the spirit and intent of the Commonwealth’s Expanded Gaming Act of 2011 (the “Gaming Act”).
When the State Legislature crafted and passed the Gaming Act, my colleagues and I carefully drafted provisions pertaining to host community agreements and the conduct of an election. M.G.L. c.23K, §15 specifically requires an applicant, as a prerequisite to filing an RFA-2 application (“Phase 2”), to receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election in the host community. (See also 205 CMR 124.00.) Also, where a proposed gaming establishment is situated in more than one community, as is the case with the Project:
The applicant shall execute an agreement with each host community, or a joint agreement with both communities, and receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election held in each host community in favor of such a license. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
Taken together, the intent of these provisions is clear. Only favorable referendum results in both host communities allow the applicant to proceed to Phase 2. That did not happen with Sterling Suffolk’s Project. Because one host community voted in the negative, the Project proposed for Suffolk Downs is dead. If Sterling Suffolk wishes to proceed with an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel, then under the terms of the Gaming Act:
[They] shall not submit a new request to the governing body within 180 days of the last election; and provided further, that a new request shall be accompanied by an agreement between the applicant and host community signed after the previous election. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
However, in their November 13th letter to the Commission, Sterling Suffolk asserted that, regardless of the November 5th election results, Revere’s host community agreement remains in effect and need only be modified to reflect a shift to Suffolk Down’s Revere parcel. Sterling Suffolk does not interpret the referendums to have been votes about the Project (and host community agreements) itself; rather they view the referendums as votes on whether Suffolk Down could be developed for a casino at all.
While it is true that Revere and East Boston voted on land use, it is also unquestionable that the host community agreements were essential to the voting process. All ballots required, and did in fact contain, “a fair, concise summary of the host community agreement.” 205 CMR 124.05. My colleagues and I in the Legislature recognized that it was imperative to ensure that Massachusetts residents in an impacted community have adequate notice of, and be well-informed about, any casino proposal prior to voting. Accordingly, the Gaming Act specifically requires a host community agreement to be made public, and that host and surrounding communities have ample opportunity to weigh the potential impacts on local businesses, traffic, jobs, as well as public safety.
Furthermore, it is false to argue that an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel is anything but a new proposal, which would require a new host community agreement and referendum under the provisions of M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13). Any proposed project development on the Revere parcel would undoubtedly look very different from that which voters reviewed prior to November 5th. Buildings and parking lots would need to be relocated, not to mention the racetrack and stables. Such changes materially alter the Project as it was initially proposed. In effect, this undermine the Gaming Act’s requirements for transparency and notice that ensure members of the impacted communities, including myself, have adequate time to weigh the merits of a proposal.
I understand why Sterling Suffolk wishes to pursue an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel. As an organization, they’ve invested a great deal of time, effort, and money to see the Suffolk Downs Project to fruition. I, too, was disappointed that the Project failed to receive the two affirmative referendum results needed to proceed to Phase 2. I believed, and still believe, that a casino has great potential to rejuvenate communities within my District. Nevertheless, the Commission cannot allow a gaming applicant to circumvent the process required by the Gaming Act merely because the results were disappointing.
I appreciate the opportunity to state my position to the Commission, and request the Commission’s clarification on the status of Sterling Suffolk’s application. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at my office.
Sincerely,
ANTHONY PETRUCCELLI
State Senator
First Suffolk and Middlesex District
Friday, November 8, 2013
No Eastie Casino: "An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission"
From No Eastie Casino 11/8/2013:
An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission:
We are writing on behalf of the 4,281 East Boston voters who soundly defeated the ill-conceived proposal for a casino at Suffolk Downs on November 5.
Suffolk Downs’ casino proposal failed. The developer was unable to choose or properly vet a casino operator. Unambiguously located in both East Boston and Revere, the developer failed to win the East Boston vote. Massachusetts law clearly states that if a proposed casino is located in more than one city or town, it must win a referendum vote in both communities, M.G.L. c. 23K, § 15(13). East Boston said NO; Suffolk Downs’ casino application is dead.
Suffolk Downs is now trying to circumvent the law by suggesting it can simply "move the goalposts" to the Revere side, but a Revere-only casino is not what residents of East Boston or Revere were called to vote for. East Boston voters said "no" to the impacts that a Suffolk Downs casino would bring, and a Revere-only casino will create the same impacts. Enough is enough - Suffolk Downs is no longer a legitimate contender. Any attempt to move forward with a Revere-only casino proposal is a deliberate effort to disenfranchise East Boston voters and circumvent the clear intent of the law. No Eastie Casino is outraged this idea could even be entertained.
East Boston residents expect and demand our elected officials to uphold and enforce the law, stand for the will of the people, and reject Suffolk Downs' last ditch effort to install a casino in our community.
No Eastie Casino calls on the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to adhere to the proper licensing procedures, M.G.L. c. 23K, 205 CMR, and application deadlines previously set forth. The law is clear and the voters have spoken. We insist that Suffolk Downs be immediately removed from consideration for a gaming license.
We will not tolerate any breach of the law or the public process. We will continue to fight to keep East Boston safe for families and small businesses. We will not stop until this threat to our community has been removed once and for all.
No Eastie Casino
An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission:
We are writing on behalf of the 4,281 East Boston voters who soundly defeated the ill-conceived proposal for a casino at Suffolk Downs on November 5.
Suffolk Downs’ casino proposal failed. The developer was unable to choose or properly vet a casino operator. Unambiguously located in both East Boston and Revere, the developer failed to win the East Boston vote. Massachusetts law clearly states that if a proposed casino is located in more than one city or town, it must win a referendum vote in both communities, M.G.L. c. 23K, § 15(13). East Boston said NO; Suffolk Downs’ casino application is dead.
Suffolk Downs is now trying to circumvent the law by suggesting it can simply "move the goalposts" to the Revere side, but a Revere-only casino is not what residents of East Boston or Revere were called to vote for. East Boston voters said "no" to the impacts that a Suffolk Downs casino would bring, and a Revere-only casino will create the same impacts. Enough is enough - Suffolk Downs is no longer a legitimate contender. Any attempt to move forward with a Revere-only casino proposal is a deliberate effort to disenfranchise East Boston voters and circumvent the clear intent of the law. No Eastie Casino is outraged this idea could even be entertained.
East Boston residents expect and demand our elected officials to uphold and enforce the law, stand for the will of the people, and reject Suffolk Downs' last ditch effort to install a casino in our community.
No Eastie Casino calls on the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to adhere to the proper licensing procedures, M.G.L. c. 23K, 205 CMR, and application deadlines previously set forth. The law is clear and the voters have spoken. We insist that Suffolk Downs be immediately removed from consideration for a gaming license.
We will not tolerate any breach of the law or the public process. We will continue to fight to keep East Boston safe for families and small businesses. We will not stop until this threat to our community has been removed once and for all.
No Eastie Casino
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