Don't gamble with ecology

GUEST COLUMN: Don't gamble with ecology
BY JACK CLARKE
Monday, April 16, 2012

One wonders how the Wynn-Kraft group's "bucolic" destination resort casino (their words) will "fit into the woods." Meanwhile, the Wampanoags still dream of 4,000 slot machines, 180 gaming tables and much more.

The casino bill endows a gaming commission with broad powers to vet casino proposals, select winning bids, and award licenses. The commission will oversee building and development, police obedience to gambling laws, and ensure compliance with public health and safety rules. The environment should not be an afterthought.

To win in this high-stakes game, bidders must prove how they will meet a variety of mandatory and optional qualifying criteria, among them the option to build green. It should not be an option.

Soon after his appointment as Massachusetts casino czar, Stephen Crosby said he would establish rules "in combination with the standards set out by the Legislature." His first order of business should be a message that the Legislature's green options will be mandatory.

Environmental impact studies should be thoroughly prepared under the Environmental Policy Act to ensure completeness, transparency, and public review.

Licenses should advance the smart-growth policies of the state's energy and environment; housing and economic development; and transportation agencies. Water conservation licenses should set a cap on gallons per day of drinking water pumped from local or regional reservoirs and aquifers.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification should be required in permits.

The Stretch energy code code should be required.

Licenses should demand the use of wind, solar, and/or geothermal power to supply most of a casino palaces' energy.

All building approvals should mandate continued improvements to energy conservation and efficiency.

In addition there should carbon constraints, wastewater licenses limits, solid waste restrictions and public transportation requirements, and development plans should demonstrate how casino development will minimize impacts to wildlife and its habitat.

The casino law requires the establishment of a Community Mitigation Fund. This fund should be equitably distributed to assist host and surrounding communities in offsetting costs related to casino construction and operation.

JACK CLARKE is director of public policy and government relations for Massachusetts Audubon.