TR-2013-43 RESOLUTION OPPOSING CASINO i
J
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: FULL COUNCIL
FROM: COUNCILOR GEORGE BITZAS
SUBJECT: TR-2013-43
DATE: SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
As you know, the Town of West Springfield rejected the proposed Hard Rock
Resort and Casino at the Big E fairgrounds. Accordingly, I wish to withdraw
TR-2013-43 from the City Council Agenda.
I would like to commend the six councilors who had the courage to join me in
co-sponsoring this resolution opposing the proposed casino. This represented a
majority of the Council and I believe we sent a strong message to the people of
West Springfield prior to their Special Election. I am pleased with the outcome
because having a casino next door to Agawam was not in the best interest of our
town.
Thank you.
cc: Mayor, Solicitor
TR-2013-43 IUM111AKMA IOU/
A REISOLUTIOtN' OPPOSING THE-HE- PROPOSED DESTINATION CASINO
TO BE" LOCATED A`l"I HE BIG E FAIRGROUNDS IN
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSE`I'TS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis .J. Perry,
Cecilia P. Calabrese, Joseph tMineo, Robert A. iMagovern and Gina M. Letellier)
NVHERLAS, a destination casino is being; proposed to be constructed at the Lastern States Lxpositio
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the 'Down of'Agawalll borders the Eastern States I-:xposition fairgrounds; and
WHERls'AS, there presently exists �1 negzltiac! impact on local traffic can the streets of Agawam dut'ing the Big I
which Creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destinataoll casino \Vvuld negativek, impact several Agawam businesses Slicll as loco
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination Casino WOUld Also negatiVel)' tlllpaCt traffic, public safety, schools, tow
ill fra5tRIC(Lire and potentially incl'casc galllblillg addiction problems, and
NVI-IFREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, Which direCll
abuts Agawam. would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built 1n Agawam; land
WHERIIAS, the proposed Host COn1111t.1111ty Agrec111ent for the destination casino to West Springfield does nc
adCCflt,ttelV compensate Agawam for the potential IlegatiVC Ill]paCtS Oil OUI' COm1111.111ity and
WHERE-AS, the 'Down of'Agawam is a wonderful place to live, wort: and raise a family and we walll to presery
and protect this fiat' Iuture generations: and
WHEREAS, the collstruction of a destination casino at the I astern States E"xpclsition Fairgrounds is not in ill
best interests of the 'I own of Agawam; and
NO«' " HEIREFORE, BE, IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the Construction of
destirlZtioll casino at the Eastern Sl�ltes Exposition iair"rounds in West Sprin y1f-ield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolve
that a Copy of this 1'eSOILItlon shall be sent to the MLISsaChllsetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and stat
representative.
Dated this day of, 2013.
PER ORDER OF ' HE_ AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Ja]nson. Presidelat
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APIIPIZO�11?1) f I TO FORM AND LEGALITY
vi13Ce11l C;i sc11, City Solicitor
TIM MALAND
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September 3, 2013
Cn
Mayor Richard A. Cohen and Members of the Agawam City Council
Agawam City Hall v
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36 Main Street 3
Agawam, MA 01001 vp
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Dear Mayor Cohen and Members of the Agawam City Council: N rri
N
In recent days,there has been much discussion and political posturing about the prospective
opposition of the Agawam City Council to the proposed Hard Rock project in West Springfield.
Thank you, in advance, for the opportunity to provide some clarity to where we are in the
process; the work that we've done with stakeholders in Agawam, in particular; and some of the
areas of possible impact and cooperation with your community. If,after a review of the facts,
you'd like to discuss further, our entire team stands ready to work together in a neighborly
manner—as we've endeavored to do since "day one" in Western Massachusetts.
Some background and information:
1. We have been active and responsive to the review process in Agawam from the very
beginning,working in good faith.
Agawam's Casino Committee has invited us to participate in at least two different
meetings and we have had a good, working dialogue with that group. We have discussed
potential impacts and-have laid the groundwork far advancing a Surrounding Community
Agreement. In recent discussions, leadership of that Committee and our organization had
agreed to regroup on next steps following the West Springfield referendum. Among the
likely next steps--retaining some professional consultants (at our cost)to assist Agawam
with evaluating impacts. Throughout,we have been available for questions and answers
and remain so today.
2. We have been building working partnerships with stakeholders in Agawam during
the last several months—with important, tangible results.
We are proud of our collaboration with pillars of the community in building a long-term
relationship for the benefit of the community. Our project has been endorsed by the West
of the River Chamber of Commerce, with significant Agawam membership, and together,
we have had myriad discussions about"Buy Local" programs and other ways we might
work together. In West Springfield, we have created a Memorial Avenue Restaurant
Association to provide marketing and sales support to our prospective, adjacent eateries—
we have said all along that we will extend this effort to dining establishments in
Agawam, as well. On August 23,we completed our first community outreach program
with Six Flags in Agawam,an enterprise that is very important to Hard Rock and the Big
E, as cornerstones of the region's tourism industry. While only the first event(which
raised money for Youth Soccer and the Boy's and Girl's Clubs), we expect the Six Flags
relationship to grow and expand in areas from cooperative group sales to destination
marketing, logistics and the like.
3. Our project is expected to have a powerful, positive economic impact for Agawam
and the region.
There are several ways that this project has been crafted to support the region, beyond the
borders of West Springfield—and will likely benefit Agawam, with its proximity. Over
3000 permanent jobs will be created—a hiring preference first for WestSide and then, for
Hampden County residents. We're certain that communities, like Agawam, will be
dramatic beneficiaries of this employment opportunity—perhaps in the hundreds of jobs.
The same rings true for construction workers, where over 10 local and regional building
trades organizations are supporting our project. We know, for fact, that dozens—or more
—of these jobs can go to Agawam residents. To help maximize employment
opportunities, we have executed a partnership with STCC and HCC, to collaborate on
educational and training efforts for workers in the Pioneer Valley. Our independent
economic impact study projects $130 million in annual payroll that will be infused into
the local and regional economy. And speaking of the local economy, our Host
Community Agreement details our commitment to the purchase of$50 million annually
in goods and services. We know that small businesses in Agawam will benefit; to date,
we call ourselves a client of several in your Town already.
4. We have focused significant attention and resources to creating meaningful
solutions and improvements for residents and businesses in Agawam, as we have
done in West Springfield.
As you may know, we completed our Host Community Agreement with the City of West
Springfield in July. In it, we took extraordinary steps to include surrounding and regional
communities in our economic structure. Agawam would stand to participate in two ways
under this Agreement: participation as a Surrounding Community and a share of
approximately $4.557 million annually(l.0%of Gross Gaming Revenue) AND,
participation in our Regional Partners Fund, which will rotate approximately$3.412
million every six years to regional municipalities, including Agawam (0.75% of Gross
Gaming Revenue). We have already publicly stated that we view Agawam as a
Surrounding Community, along with Springfield. The annual dollars to Agawam would
mitigate any potential impact(and provide further economic support), while the Regional
Partners Fund would allow Agawam to target a significant capital project for activation
on a rotating basis.
We have committed to providing $35 million in private sector investment to public
roadways, which will ease congestion and improve infrastructure. Agawam wins with
our transportation plans in a number of ways. First, we are today advocating MassDOT
for improvements of the Morgan-Sullivan Bridge,where our interests are aligned. We
believe that our project has the potential to accelerate the state's long-delayed work on
the bridge. Secondly, that bridge renewal is compatible with our plans to add turning
lanes and improved circulation into the Eastern States Exposition, as a means of reducing
congestion at the bridge and back into Agawam. And on Route 5, we are advancing the
construction of a new double-diamond interchange. This new improvement will: provide
a direct route for customers into the project via budgeted and planned improvements
along Agawam Avenue; ease back-ups that occur at the Memorial Rotary and ultimately
work their way down to the South End Rotary and bridge; and, can unlock the value of
properties that lie in the Agawam municipality which are now, inaccessible and of little
economic value.
While we respect your rights to express opinions, we would hope that you would consider some
of the facts and history here in detail. We'd be happy to discuss with you on an individual basis
or, to the full Council.
At Hard Rock,we pride ourselves on building lasting, productive relationships in communities—
as we have done since 1971 around the world and today, count business units in over 50
countries. "Love All, Serve All"is our corporate DNA, where community service and
philanthropy are a part of our daily operations. We would expect to expand this working
tradition with Agawam—which is already underway throughout the community—and in every
corner of Western Massachusetts.
Many thanks.
Sincerely, liu
TIM MALAND
President
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England
WEST SPRINGFIELD CASINO QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS
1] Why would anybody want to build a major building worth a
small fortune in a flood plain?
2] Why would anybody want to build a major building worth a
small fortune at a location that was once a river bottom?
3] Why would-anybody want to build a major building worth a
small fortune in an area that was once a river delta of a large river
that flows into a major river?
4] Why would anybody want to build a major building worth a
small fortune that would have a base that is below the normal
water level of a river on the other side of an adjacent river levee?
S] Why would anybody want to build a vault holding many
millions of dollars below the river level of an adjacent river?
6] Can the proposed casino obtain flood insurance?
7] When the deep foundation is dug for the proposed casino will
the workers strike an underground water channel that when
uncovered shoot a geyser up into the air?
8] Do local government-and highway department officials really
think there is more than one viable roadway into the proposed
casino site beyond the Circuit Avenue approach?
9] Do hotel customers really want to look out of their room
windows at a less than well maintained industrial area?
101 Will the sometimes acrid smells from the Bondi's Island
dumpsite and sewerage plant be..a*factor in whether customers
will patronize the site? `
11] Have the Bondi's Island officials said that a new road for the
proposed casino can pass through their property?
12] If the Bondi's Island dumpsite needs to close down to make
way for a new road or roads to the proposed casino where will the
dump facility be moved to?
13] Have any test borings been made to find out how far down
the proposed casino would have to dig to locate bedrock?
14] How many days out of a 365 day year will there be serious
disruptions to area homes, businesses and traffic?
15] Why aren't local authorities and public officials suggesting
that any construction of the proposed casino be postponed until
after the successful completion of the planned 191 replacement,
the planned Route 147 Bridge rebuilding, the planned Route 5
upgrades, any nearby road adjustments, etc., etc.?
.16] Shouldn't local government officials be promoting new
businesses that involve positive, constructive and useful products
and services?
17] Where are the companies and industries that are going to be
bought out by the proposed casino people going to move to? - or -
are they just going to shut down and go out of business?
18] How is the traffic going to be affected at the Memorial
Avenue/Memorial Bridge Rotary when the D.O.T. changes it to the
currently favored/currently rumored one lane reconstruction?
191 Do the local citizens really want to see in their community
hot-racking style flophouses like the type found in downtown
Norwich CT?
201 Will we have any drive-by shootings like what happened
recently near the Barbary Coast Casino in Las Vegas NV?
21] How will local authorities deal with the handbill hawkers
that - as in Las Vegas - thrust advertisements of strip clubs
showing near naked men and near naked women into the faces of
passersby along the streets?
22] What did Joshua Brooks ever say or ever do that would
suggest that he would want a gambling parlor at the Big E?
23] What did Horace Moses ever say or ever do that would
suggest that he would want a gambling parlor at the Big E?
24] Has the Massachusetts D.O.T. approved the construction of
a new exit along Route 5 in West Springfield MA?
25] How much of the current landfill/garbage piles will need to
be removed to allow for the suggested new road that would go in a
convoluted manner between Route 5 and the proposed casino?
David Conley
Agawam MA
AGAWAM COUNCIL MEETING - SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
My name is David Conley. My wife and I currently live in Agawam. I was
hired by Strathmore Paper Co. as an Assistant Superintendent of the
Russell MA mills in 1967.
I have neither ill will nor any issues with anyone in the area including
people in West Springfield. I am not here to advocate a casino in
Springfield nor Palmer. I am not a member of the anti-casino group in West
Springfield. I am here just to speak for myself on behalf of issues that I
feel have not been fully addressed regarding the proposed W.S. casino.
I have been following the issue in the media and have attended several
public meetings promoting the casino. During that time I started to
accumulate a number of questions that I was sure that the people of West
Springfield or the media would ask the promoters.-That did not happen and
the list that I have handed to you as councilors is my current list. Perhaps
it is not too late to get the answers - perhaps you know the answers.
When I learned this past weekend that a vote by the Agawam Council
would be cast about whether Agawam approves or disapproves of a nearby
casino - I decided to make the list available to Mr. Bitzas. He invited me to
present the concerns to you this evening.
One matter that I did pursue was when the promoters came to the Agawam
Library on March 27th to present their case. After the presentation I started
a conversation with Mr. Gene Cassidy to say that I disagreed with his
comment in the media where he implied that Mr. Horace Moses would
welcome a casino to the Eastern States Exposition grounds. We had a
cordial talk and he said he found my remarks to be interesting.
What I told him in public was that when I was hired at Strathmore by Vice
President Bemis Wood (of-West Springfield) and Superintendent Charles
Benoit (of Agawam), they told me that I would be the first salaried person
hired into the.manufacturing and mechanical.departments that.would not
be required to (1) live in the neighborhood of the mill and (2) attend the
Big E each year. I was told that such persons in the recent decades had
been expected to attend each year to be inspired by the new mechanical
equipment on display (Strathmore manufactured with complicated
mechanical devices some of the most unique papers in the world) and to be
inspired by the spirit and legacy of Mr. Horace Moses.
I also told Mr. Cassidy that I worked during my initial years with some old-
timers who had had a variety of dealings and relationships with Mr. Moses.
I learned that he promoted a positive and constructive life style.
Nothing in the biography of Mr. Moses "Achievement Is My Goal" suggests
that a casino should be located at the E.S.E. The subtitle reads - The story
of a great industrialist Horace A. Moses who counted his success in terms
of the opportunities he was able to provide for others.
I suggest that gambling should not be an opportunity to visitors at the fair.
TR-2013-43
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED DESTINATION CASINO
TO BE LOCATED AT THE BIG E FAIRGROUNDS IN
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson,Dennis J. Perry,
Cecilia P. Calabrese, Joseph Mineo, Robert A. Magovern and Gina M. Letellier)
WHEREAS, a destination casino is being proposed to be constructed at the Eastern States Exposition
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there presently exists a negative impact on local traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E
which creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact several Agawam businesses such as local
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would also negatively impact traffic, public safety, schools, town
infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, which directly
abuts Agawam, would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built in Agawam; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does not
adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impacts on our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and we want to preserve
and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds is not in the
best interests of the Town of Agawam; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the construction of a
destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolved
that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and state
representative.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Jo Rson, President
AP RO ED TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent i scia, City Solicitor
PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE
Tuesday,September 3, 2013
TR-2013-43 is a resolution opposing the proposed destination casino at the Big E that I
sponsored along with six other councilors. If passed, it will be sent to the Massachusetts
Gaming Commission as well as our State Senator and State Representative. This is a
proactive measure to express our displeasure of the possibility of a casino being built at the
Big E Fairgrounds in West Springfield.
I believe the construction of a casino in West Springfield is not in the best interests of the
Town of Agawam. Our town is a wonderful place to live, work, raise a family and we wish to
preserve and protect this for all future generations. The construction of a destination casino
at the Big E, which directly abuts Agawam, would result in the same impact as having a
destination casino actually built in Agawam. The casino will also create a negative impact on
traffic, public safety, schools, town infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction
problems. The casino would also negatively affect Agawam businesses including local
restaurants and other entertainment businesses. We already have a negative impact on local
traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E which also creates a hardship for many
Agawam residents and businesses.
The proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does
not adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impact on our community.
Agawam was classified in the same manner as Westfield, Holyoke, Chicopee and other towns
farther away. However even if Agawam was given more money, i believe it still is not in the
best interests of Agawam to have a casino right next door to us. On September 10`.. the
voters of West Springfield will vote to pass a casino in West Springfield. If the measure
passes, then this Resolution will go in front of the full Agawam City Council for a vote, of
which there are already seven councilors in favor representing a majority of the Full Council.
If the Town of West Springfield defeats the casino on September 10rh, this Resolution would
be a moot point and subsequently withdrawn from the Agenda.
Respectfully submitted,
George Bitzas
Agawam City Councilor
TR-2013-43
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED DESTINATION CASINO
TO BE LOCATED AT THE BIG E FAIRGROUNDS IN
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis J. Perry,
Cecilia P. Calabrese, Joseph Mineo, and Robert A. Magovern)
WHEREAS, a destination casino is being proposed to be constructed at the Eastern States Exposition
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there presently exists a negative impact on local traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E
which creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact several Agawam businesses such as local
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would also negatively impact traffic, public safety, schools, town
infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, which directly
abuts Agawam, would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built in Agawam; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does not
adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impacts on our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and we want to preserve
and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds is not in the
best interests of the Town of Agawam; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the construction of a
destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolved
that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and state
representative.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, President
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
TR-2013-43
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED DESTINATION CASINO
TO BE LOCATED AT THE BIG E FAIRGROUNDS IN
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis J. Perry,
Cecilia P. Calabrese,Joseph Mineo, and Robert A. Magovern)
WHEREAS, a destination casino is being proposed to be constructed at the Eastern States Exposition
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there presently exists a negative impact on local traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E
which creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact several Agawam businesses such as local
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would also negatively impact traffic, public safety, schools, town
infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, which directly
abuts Agawam, would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built in Agawam; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does not
adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impacts on our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and we want to preserve
and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds is not in the
best interests of the Town of Agawam; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the construction of a
destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolved
that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and state
representative.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, President
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
TR-2013-43
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED DESTINATION CASINO
TO BE LOCATED AT THE BIG E FAIRGROUNDS IN
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis J. Perry,
Cecilia P. Calabrese, Joseph Mineo, and Robert A. Magovern)
WHEREAS, a destination casino is being proposed to be constructed at the Eastern States Exposition
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS,the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there presently exists a negative impact on local traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E
which creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact several Agawam businesses such as local
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would also negatively impact traffic, public safety, schools, town
infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, which directly
abuts Agawam, would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built in Agawam; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does not
adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impacts on our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and we want to preserve
and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds is not in the
best interests of the Town of Agawam; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the construction of a
destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolved
that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and state
representative.
Dated this day of ,2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, President
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
TR-2013-`D
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED
DESTINATION CASINO TO BE LOCATED AT THE BIG E
FAIRGROUNDS IN WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis J. Perry, Cecilia P. Calabrese,
Joseph Mineo and ) jtas
1
WHEREAS, a destination casino is being proposed to be constructed at the Eastern States Exposition
fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there presently exists a negative impact on local traffic on the streets of Agawam during the Big E
which creates a hardship for many Agawam residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact several Agawam businesses such as local
restaurants and other entertainment based businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed destination casino would negatively impact traffic, public safety, schools, town
infrastructure and potentially increase gambling addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, which directly
abuts Agawam, would result in the same impacts as having a destination casino built in Agawam; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Host Community Agreement for the destination casino in West Springfield does not
adequately compensate Agawam for the potential negative impacts on our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and we want to preserve
and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the construction of a destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds is not in the
best interests of the Town of Agawam; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the construction of a
destination casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Be it also resolved
that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and our state senator and state
representative.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, President
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
. I TR-2013-
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO NEW ENGLAND
TO BE LOCATED AT THE EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION ON
MEMORIAL AVENUE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Christopher C. Johnson, Dennis J. Perry, Cecilia P. Calabrese,
Paul Cavallo,Joseph Mineo, and Robert A. Magovern)
WHEREAS, a Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England is being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition in
West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition grounds; and
WHEREAS, there is already a negative impact on local traffic and a hardship to the residents of Agawam during
the Big E and Six Flags season; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England would also negatively impact local
restaurants and businesses, public safety, schools, town infrastructure and increase addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, having a casino resort and hotel at the Eastern States Exposition which directly abuts the Agawam
town line is like having the casino within our own town especially since the Town of Agawam overwhelmingly voted
down a casino within this town several years ago; and
WHEREAS, there is not any amount of compensation that is worth putting our town at such a risk potentially
destroying the character and quality of life of our town; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live and raise our families and we should be proactive
to preserve and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, as elected officials who represent the residents of Agawam, it is our duty to raise our voices and
stand in opposition to the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which would only benefit a small group of
people.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the Hard Rock Hotel
& Casino New England being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield,
Massachusetts and urges the residents and elected officials of West Springfield to do the same. Be it also resolved that a
copy of this resolution be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission expressing our concerns to them and our
opposition to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which abuts the Town of Agawam.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, President
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
. , TR-2013-
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO NEW ENGLAND
TO BE LOCATED AT THE EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION ON 619 �
MEMORIAL AVENUE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas) S �Dlsv�
{Co-sponsored by Councilors Cecilia P. CalabreYe, Joseph Mineo and J
WHEREAS, a Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England is being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition in
West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition grounds; and
WHEREAS, there is already a negative impact on local traffic and a hardship to the residents of Agawam during
the Big E and Six Flags season; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England would also negatively impact local
restaurants and businesses, public safety, schools, town infrastructure and increase addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, having a casino resort and hotel at the Eastern States Exposition which directly abuts the Agawam
town line is like having the casino within our own town especially since the Town of Agawam overwhelmingly voted
down a casino within this town several years ago; and
WHEREAS, there is not anv amount of compensation that is worth putting our town at such a risk potentially
destroying the character and quality of life of our town; and
WHEREAS, the "Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live and raise our families and we should be proactive
to preserve and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, as elected officials who represent the residents of Agawam, it is our duty to raise our voices and
stand in opposition to the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which would only benefit a small group of
people.
NOW "THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the Hard Rock Hotel
& Casino New England being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield,
Massachusetts and urges the residents and elected officials of West Springfield to do the same. Be it also resolved that a
copy of this resolution be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission expressing our concerns to them and our
opposition to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which abuts the Town o1'Agawam.
Dated this day of , 2013. /-a
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL 03rlxn / v �
Christ her C. J i lson. President
AP 'R VED TO FORM AND LEGALITY
c
Vincent Giosc City Solicitor
TR-2013-8
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO NEW ENGLAND
TO BE LOCATED AT THE EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION ON
MEMORIAL AVENUE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Cecilia P. Calabrese, Joseph Mineo and James P. Cichetti)
WHEREAS, a Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England is being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition in
West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition grounds; and
WHEREAS, there is already a negative impact on local traffic and a hardship to the residents of Agawam during
the Big E and Six Flags season; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England would also negatively impact local
restaurants and businesses, public safety, schools, town infrastructure and increase addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, having a casino resort and hotel at the Eastern States Exposition which directly abuts the Agawam
town line is like having the casino within our own town especially since the Town of Agawam overwhelmingly voted
down a casino within this town several years ago; and
WHEREAS, there is not any amount of compensation that is worth putting our town at such a risk potentially
destroying the character and quality of life of our town; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live and raise our families and we should be proactive
to preserve and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, as elected officials who represent the residents of Agawam, it is our duty to raise our voices and
stand in opposition to the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which would only benefit a small group of
people.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the Hard Rock Hotel
& Casino New England being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield,
Massachusetts and urges the residents and elected officials of West Springfield to do the same. Be it also resolved that a
copy of this resolution be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission expressing our concerns to them and our
opposition to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which abuts the Town of Agawam.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christopher C. Johnson, 1'resident
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
Vincent Gioscia, City Solicitor
TR-2013-1 1
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO NEW ENGLAND
TO BE LOCATED AT THE EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION ON
MEMORIAL AVENUE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
(Sponsored by Councilor George Bitzas)
(Co-sponsored by Councilors Cecilia I'. Calabrese, Joseph Mineo and James P. Cichetti)
WHEREAS, a Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England is being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition in
West Springfield, Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam borders the Eastern States Exposition grounds; and
WHEREAS, there is already a negative impact on local traffic and a hardship to the residents of Agawam during
the Big E and Six Flags season; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England would also negatively impact local
restaurants and businesses, public safety, schools, town infrastructure and increase addiction problems; and
WHEREAS, having a casino resort and hotel at the Eastern States Exposition which directly abuts the Agawam
town line is like having the casino within our own town especially since the Town of Agawam overwhelmingly voted
down a casino within this town several years ago; and
WHEREAS, there is not any amount of compensation that is worth putting our town at such a risk potentially
destroying the character and quality of life of our town, and
WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is a wonderful place to live and raise our families and we should be proactive
to preserve and protect this for future generations; and
WHEREAS, as elected officials who represent the residents of Agawam, it is our duty to raise our voices and
stand in opposition to the proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which would only benefit a small group of
people.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Agawam City Council hereby opposes the Hard Rock Hotel
& Casino New England being proposed at the Eastern States Exposition on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield,
Massachusetts and urges the residents and elected officials of West Springfield to do the same. Be it also resolved that a
copy of this resolution be sent to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission expressing our concerns to them and our
opposition to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England which abuts the Town of Agawam.
Dated this day of , 2013.
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
Christ her C. .I son, President
AP R VED TO FORM AND LEGALITY
r -
Vincent dio's-d'y, City Solicitor