18May 15, 2013
The Honorable James J. Ferrera, III, President &
Members of the Springfield City Council
36 Court Street, Room 212
Springfield, MA 01103
Re: Receipt of Request for Referendum on Destination Resort Casino
Dear President Ferrera & City Council Members:
On May 14, 2013 the City of Springfield received a request to hold a special election in the important decision of whether or not to permit MGM Springfield to locate a Destination Resort Casino, if licensed by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), in the downtown area of Springfield generally bounded by Main Street, Union Street, West Columbus Avenue and State Street.
I am writing to ask that you formally acknowledge receipt of the request for the election as of May 14, 2014 by making every effort to assist the City Clerk and Election Commissioner in carrying out the election as requested.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission will receive a copy of our acknowledgment as the governing body for Springfield under the Gaming Act, as well as a copy of the Host Community Agreement and the concise summary.
The Election Commissioner has submitted a warrant to you containing the ballot question language and summary. In addition, the host community agreement that was signed by MGM Springfield and the City of Springfield on May 14, 2013, as well as a concise summary of that agreement, is available online at the City’s website at http://www.springfield-ma.gov/planning/casino.html.
Under the state gaming act, as well as the Host Community Agreement, MGM Springfield is obligated to reimburse the City for all related expenses of the election within thirty (30) days after it being held.
I hope you will join with me to encourage all registered voters in Springfield to vote on the ballot question.
Respectfully,
Domenic J. Sarno
Mayor