Grassroots Anti-Casino Group Grows in Springfield
September 24th, 2012
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) — There’s been a lot of talk lately about casinos in Springfield.
Most of it how much casinos could help the city, but there’s also a growing anti-casino voice that’s starting to be heard.
The City of Springfield is moving as quickly as it can on the casino question.
Proponents like Mayor Domenic Sarno says it will bring jobs and economic development to the city.
But the question is not without its opposition.
“Well Springfield is an urban center and as an urban center, it has urtban problems and a casino in downtown Springfield will do nothing but make those problems worse.”
Michael Kogut is leading the anti-casino effort.
“We’re not going to have anywhere near the amount of out of state casino lobby money that’s going to pour into this city for a yes vote, but we have a grass roots, hard working organization,” says Kogut.
Kogut also feels that when Springfield votes on the casino issue, there should be a city wide referendum, and not just a ward vote on the subject.
And he says Mayor Sarno and other casino supporters may be counting their casino chickens before they’re hatched.
Kogut adds, “I’m getting response not only from people in Springfield but from surrounding communities who don’t want to see a casino here. We get a lot of support from small businesses. I think there’s going to be a real surprise for the mayor and city council when that vote takes place.”
Right now, it looks like the earliest that vote will take place is next June.
Michael Kogut also says the anti-casino committee is able to solicit contributions to fund the anti-casino drive.
http://www.wggb.com/2012/09/24/grassroots-anti-casino-group-grows-in-springfield/
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