SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – As we continue our coverage of MGM Springfield, 22News heard from business owners concerned about the economic impact this could have on the city.
When big-name celebrities come to Western Massachusetts for the MGM Springfield show, Nadim's Downtown Mediterranean Grill books customers sometimes two weeks in advance.
“If MGM were to buy it and leave, it would be devastating news for the city of Springfield,” said owner Nadim Cashew. The benefits the casino has brought to local businesses are undeniable, Nadim said, reporting that the casino could be put up for sale, which could be a huge loss for the city and region. MGM Springfield is the city's largest taxpayer. Kashou added: “We have to shoulder a huge burden. If they leave, we don't know who is going to come in to replace them.”
In the final quarter of 2023, MGM Springfield generated just over $66 million in gaming revenue, of which it returned approximately $16 million to the commonwealth, according to a Massachusetts Gaming Commission report.
The report also showed that employment at MGM Springfield, which has about 1,500 employees, grew 8% last quarter. State leaders say casinos need to be protected if they are actually for sale.
22News spoke with state Sen. Adam Gomez. He said: I rely on them for their work. ” Sen. Gomez said that if MGM Springfield were to be sold, the state Legislature would ensure that the next company was fully vetted and would honor its agreements with the host community.
Mayor Domenic Sarno said he has set up a meeting with the president and CEO of MGM Resorts International to discuss the future of the property. Further details about the meeting were not released.
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Kristina D'Amours is a reporter who is part of the evening 22News team.to follow Christina from X @KristinaD_WWLP Check out her bio to see more of her work.
