The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) announced Monday that applications for Phase 2 of the resort casino review process are now available. However, uncertainty remains about when Suffolk Downs will be in a position to submit its application this week.
Phase 2 applications stand out in the gaming industry due to their comprehensive examination of both operational plans and financial backing from resort casino hopefuls. Before any Phase I applicant can access the Phase 2 materials, they must first complete host community agreements and hold a community ballot referendum.
Wynn Resorts in Everett is expected to complete its requirements this Saturday, June 22nd, pending a successful referendum vote. Should voters approve, Wynn would likely be cleared to begin Phase 2 shortly after receiving MGC approval of its Phase 1 submission.
Suffolk Downs faces a delay due to ongoing host community agreement talks with Boston, which have slowed momentum and pushed any Phase 2 filing into late summer or fall at the earliest.
Phase 2 applications must reach the MGC by Dec. 31st at 2 p.m.
The MGC’s Monday statement emphasized its interest in distinctive developments that would appeal to both residents and visitors.
“The Phase 2 application was designed by MGC as a vehicle for each applicant to demonstrate that it has thought broadly and creatively about creating an innovative and unique gaming establishment in Massachusetts that will create synergy with, and provide a significant and lasting benefit to, the residents of the host community,” stated the release.
MGC Chairman Steve Crosby remarked, “Since the Commission’s inception a little more than a year ago, we have been steadfast in our efforts to fully develop and articulate a vision, rooted in the expanded gaming legislation, of how our new gaming industry should be conceived and implemented in the Commonwealth. I believe that this site specific, detailed application will solicit from the competing gaming applicants, the most innovative, regionally compatible, and economically significant development plans possible, assuring the people of the Massachusetts and the Commission a range of options that will ultimately maximize the benefits of expanded gaming to our Commonwealth.”
The 236-page Phase 2 application comprises eight sections, five of which carry particular importance: project overview, financing details, economic development impact, building and site design, and mitigation measures.
To submit a Phase 2 application, an applicant must achieve a positive suitability determination from the MGC during Phase 1, secure an executed host community agreement, and present certified referendum results showing voter approval.
Resort casino licenses for Region A and B are projected to be awarded in spring 2014.