Middleborough casino talks 'back on track'

2007-07-16 11:56:58

Negotiations between the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and the town of Middleborough over a new casino have become "friendly" after worries that talks were close to collapse.

A spokesman for the tribe said that both parties are to meet this week in the hope that an agreement can be reached.

Both sides hope to present a solution to voters at a town meeting on July 28th when up to 10,000 voters are expected to turn out to decide the future of the Middleborough.

The casino is a controversial project but its supporters have said it will prevent townspeople from having to pay more taxes.

However, selectman Patrick Rogers has expressed concern that arranging a town meeting has taken precedence over a successful negotiation.

Gaming expert and attorney Dennis Whittlesey, who is preparing a draft agreement between the Wampanoag tribe and the town, has said that negotiations would take about a month to complete.

The tribe hopes to control 625 acres of land in order to build a luxury casino resort, with sole access from Route 44.