Backers, Foes Clash Over Leominster Slots Plan
PHOTO/Michael Novinson
Lancaster selectman Stanley Starr speaks about the Leominster slots proposal during a public input meeting Monday.
Casino backers touted the economic benefits a $200 million slots parlor could provide to the North Central Massachusetts region, while opponents expressed concerns about traffic and property values yesterday at a public forum in Lancaster.
Hundreds of people filled the Lancaster Community Center’s meeting rooms and hallways to voice their opinions on the proposed 125,000-square-foot development in Leominster. Nearly 80 people signed up to comment at the input meeting, held by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, while more than a dozen stood outside, wearing t-shirts and holding posters in protest of the Cordish Cos. proposal.
Supporters emphasized the economic windfall of 600 construction and 600 permanent jobs, especially in places like Leominster and Fitchburg that have long struggled with poverty and high unemployment.
“This is the only opportunity I see for the city to turn it around,” said Curtis Cook, a recent veteran hired on the spot by Cordish after applying for a job.
The Jungle Road development would also enable the region to diversify its economy, decreasing its dependence on a declining manufacturing sector, said David McKeehan, president of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. Several slots advocates, including Leominster resident Patrick Aubuchon, praised Cordish for promising to donate $1.5 million to startup medical technology companies.
“Leominster has spoken, and they want this opportunity,” said Aubuchon, referencing the Sept. 24 ballot referendum that passed 61-39 percent.
Much of the opposition from residents and surrounding municipalities focused on Cordish’s claims that nearly all visitors would come to the casino using Interstate 190, meaning few improvements were needed to nearby roads. But several speakers expect the project would further clog up Route 117, as most people from the greater Boston area would likely drive from Interstate 495 to Route 117 to get to the slots parlor.
Lancaster resident Laila Marie Lawler worried that the project would lower the value of her home by requiring additional police services and creating and attracting problem gamblers.
Several speakers asked Coridsh to provide more information about the salary ranges for the new jobs, and questioned whether these positions would put workers on a career tracks or provide them with many opportunities for upward advancement.
“These jobs are not going to provide a great deal of comfort or income,” said Arline Stith, a Leominster resident.
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