Casino magnate Steve Wynn offered Mayor Martin J. Walsh a nine figure sum to settle his lawsuit over Wynn's casino license in Everett, the Mayor said on Boston Public Radio Friday. Walsh said the offer came during a phone call with Steve Wynn two days ago.
Walsh is currently pursuing a lawsuit against the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to revoke a license for a proposed Wynn casino in Everett. Walsh believes the city of Boston should be considered a host community for the casino because Boston roads provide access to the Everett site. Host community status would allow Boston residents the opportunity to vote on whether or not casino plans would move forward.
"He threw a figure at me about money," Walsh said. "It's really not about the money. It's about allowing the people of Charlestown a vote."
Walsh said he proposed a sit-down meeting with Wynn to discuss specifics, and Wynn told him he would be available after Labor Day.
"I'll talk to anyone. We've said all along, we're not not going to talk," Walsh said. "Our concerns have been with mainly the way the Gaming Commission has handled Boston in this case. But we'll have a conversation and I'll express to Mr. Wynn and the Wynn folks the importance of making sure the people of Charlestown have the opportunity to have their voice heard," he continued.
Walsh said Wynn offered a "significant amount of money" to come to a deal, and when pressed clarified it was a "nine-figure" sum.
"I sweet talked him up," he said.
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