Plans to build a casino on Suffolk Downs’ property in Revere took another step forward yesterday Monday now that developers have worked out a host community agreement with Revere Mayor Dan Rizzo.
Rizzo said what he likes best about the deal with Suffolk Downs is the opportunity to put people to work:
"The notion of creating 4,000 permanent jobs is just very exciting to me. I know sitting on my desk right now are the resumes of 300 to 400 people in desperate need of work."
The developers, Suffolk Downs and Mohegan Sun, have agreed to pay Revere $33 million up front, plus $40 million in infrastructure improvements, a new athletic field, and a community center. The developers also promise money for Revere public schools and police and fire departments. And at least $25 million in payments from the casino.
The mayor and the city council must now schedule a referendum in mid to late February.
If voters approve the plan, it would likely compete with Wynn Resorts for the sole Eastern Massachusetts resort casino license.
