Agawam oppose a Hard Rock casino in West Springfield

By Elysia Rodriguez
Published: Thursday, August 29, 2013

AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) - Strong opposition in Agawam is building against the proposed West Springfield Hard Rock casino to be built at the Big E fairgrounds.

Agawam City Councilor George Bizas told 22News the council plans to discuss a resolution at their next meeting formally opposing Hard Rock's proposal to build a casino in West Springfield.

It's a symbolic move, but the five sponsoring City Councilors hope it will send a message to West Springfield voters.

Thursday night 22News spoke with West Springfield Town Council Brian Griffin about this possible resolution.

Griffin told 22News he's surprised. “Agawam was always invited to the table to speak with us about any and all problems they have, and for the most part I think we've had great relationships with Agawam in this process.”

The resolution cites concerns about traffic, public safety and increased gambling addition problems.

Hard Rock's community agreement does provide money to neighboring communities. Agawam would be in line to get about 3.4 million dollars every six years.

How does anyone believe this is adequate?

http://www.wwlp.com/news/local/hampden/agawam-city-councilors-oppose-a-hard-rock-casino