Boston Mayor Martin Walsh has filed suit against the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, arguing Charlestown residents should have a vote on a $1.6 billion casino planned by Wynn Resorts in nearby Everett.
The lawsuit filed Monday in Suffolk Superior Court argues that Boston should have "host community" status because the only "legal access" to the casino site goes through the Charlestown neighborhood.
The commission in May denied the city's request to be designated a host community for either the Everett proposal or a competing plan for a casino in Revere. The commission later awarded Wynn the sole easternMassachusetts resort casino license.
The panel designated Boston as a surrounding community, which entitles the city to financial compensation from Wynn, but not a vote.
A spokeswoman said the commission had no immediate comment on the lawsuit.
