Springfield Clears Way For Negotiations With 2 Casino Developers

Springfield's mayor has decided to open host community negotiations with each of the two companies hoping to develop casinos in the western Massachusetts city.

Mayor Domenic Sarno made the announcement on Monday after an internal review by the city of both casino proposals, one by MGM Resorts International and the other by Penn National Gaming.

The city could have chosen to negotiate with just one developer. The plan to begin negotiations with both companies does not guarantee that agreements will be struck with one or both.

Voters would be required to approve any host community agreement. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission will have the final say on the awarding of the sole resort casino license for western Massachusetts.