Gaming Commission Considers Process for Final Casino Applications

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission approved a first draft of regulations Thursday that will guide how it evaluates resort casino proposals, setting up a process that will require developers to demonstrate community, regulatory and financial support for their projects.

Milford is among three communities that has been identified by developers seeking the single license available for a resort casino in the greater Boston region.

The development proposed for Milford is called "Crossroads Massachusetts" and is being advanced by Colorado-based developer David Nunes, working with partners Warner Gaming and Foxwoods Resort Casino. The proposed location is undeveloped land east of Interstate 495 and north of Route 16, near the Holliston line.

The draft regulations approved by the commission cover nearly 100 pages of specific requirements for applications, and the review process. It will be distributed publicly on the Gaming Commission's website Friday, and to local governments, and public comments collected for the next month. A public hearing on regulations has tentatively been set for May 3.

The commission hopes to have a final vote June 7.

"It really is a first rate set of regulations that I think we can be proud to put before the public, in solicitation of comments," said Commissioner James McHugh. "It undoubtedly will engender thoughtful comments."

The so-called Phase 2 applications can be made by developers once they pass an initial state review that looks at their financial backgrounds and business histories, and once they have negotiated a host agreement with the site town. Completed applications have to address 57 elements, and show proof that the community has supported the project in a referendum vote.

The state's background investigations into developers and their financial backers began in late January, and is considered the Phase 1 process.

Under Phase 2 applications, developers concentrate on their sites and specific proposals. They will need to demonstrate they "have thought broadly and creatively about creating an innovative and unique gaming establishment" that provides a "significant and lasting benefit to the residents of the host community, the surrounding communities, the region and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."

Fifty-seven elements have to be addressed by developers, including:

• a copy of the host community agreement,  which includes provisions for a community impact fee.
• information demonstrating how the developer will address impact and mitigation concerns.
• a listing of the infrastructure costs of the host town resulting from the construction and operation of a casino, and a statement to commit to a "community mitigation plan."
• proof of a positive vote in the host town in a referendum on the casino.
• information explaining how the applicant will address surrounding community impacts.
• a description and documentation of public outreach efforts made to local communities.
• clear and convincing evidence of financial stability, including tax returns and other reports filed by government agencies and personal accounting check records and ledgers.
• The designs for the proposed gaming establishment, including architects, engineers and designers, and a timeline of construction.
• The number of employees to be employed at the proposed casino, including pay rates and benefits.
• a market analysis detailing the benefits of the site location of the gaming establishment.