Milford Police and Fire Unions Endorse Foxwoods MA Casino

The Milford police and firefighters unions have endorsed the proposed Foxwoods Massachusetts casino, with union leaders saying the development will result in a stronger local economy and increased resources for public safety.

In a release distributed by Foxwoods, the union presidents said the $1 billion development will be good for the town.

"Revenue to the town, more jobs and property tax relief are all good for Milford’s citizens, resulting in an improved local economy, which means a safer community," said officer Robert Tusino, President of the Milford Police Association. "The town will grow and the police department will have the ability to grow with it."

In the statement, said firefighter Sean Meehan, president of the Milford Permanent Firefighters Association: "No other type of developer would have provided the support we’re getting with the resort casino. We asked for more resources to accommodate the development, and we got them. A residential or commercial development on the property would just mean more calls with existing capabilities."

Under the host community agreement that goes to voters on Nov. 19, the police and fire departments will receive an up-front payment of more than $2 million and annual payments of $2.5 million from Foxwoods to cover increased police and fire personnel and equipment.

“This is an important milestone for us as we seek to integrate the development with the town,” said Foxwoods President and CEO Scott Butera. “With the resort casino, Milford will become a more prosperous community. Our provisions for increased resources will help public safety in Milford, and we’re grateful for the vote of confidence from both of the town’s public safety unions.”