Community Corner
POLL: Will Neighboring Opposition to a Casino Make a Difference?
Residents and leaders of towns surrounding Milford have begun online petitions, and are planning methods to influence state gaming commission members, all in expectation of a casino proposal.
State legislation that will allow up to three casinos in Massachusetts did not give neighboring communities a vote in whether a gambling resort can locate in a community.
So, if Milford voters decide to endorse a casino proposal, voters in Grafton, Hopkinton, Upton and Holliston, among other communities, can't block it.
But they can try to head one off before it gets to that point, by making a case to the state Gaming Commission that the Milford proposal will not be beneficial.
Find out what's happening in Milfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Opponents who worry a casino proposal might become viable in Milford are stepping up their organizational efforts. As the Boston Globe reported this week, activists in Holliston have started grassroots efforts to build opposition to the casino, and make a factual case against it. The developer, David Nunes, has indicated a proposal could be presented to Milford selectmen within months.
Should people in surrounding communities accept that this decision is not theirs? Or should they push on, and build a case against it?
Find out what's happening in Milfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
