Thursday, 4:30 PM
Aquinnah Wampanoags join with New York tribe to build casino
By Globe Staff
With the aim of building a casino in Massachusetts, the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe from Martha's Vineyard announced today that it has partnered with another tribe that built a $750 million gaming empire in Western New York.
By joining forces with the Seneca Nation of Indians, the Aquinnah Wampanoags have injected competition into the race to build a casino in Southeastern Massachusetts. The move also complicates Governor Deval Patrick's proposal to license three resort-style gaming facilities in the state, a plan that would give preference to federally recognized Massachusetts tribes.
"The Aquinnah Wampanoag and Seneca tribes have formed a unique development group that is ready to work with state officials to create a successful Native American gaming destination in Massachusetts," Donald A. Widdiss, chairman of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe, said today in a statement. "Unlike other proposals, an Aquinnah Wampanoag casino will be a locally owned and locally developed project that ensures that the significant economic benefits remain in the Commonwealth, and are not solely enjoyed by outside interests."
Before Patrick unveiled his plan, the Mashpee Wampanoag from Cape Cod had already reached an agreement with the town of Middleborough to build a $1 billion casino with 4,000 slot machines, table games, and a broad offering of amenities. The Mashpee plan has been backed by Sol Kerzner and Len Wolman, the billionaire developers of Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.
Under Patrick's plan, three areas of the state would be designated for resort casinos, including one in Southeastern Massachusetts. The Aquinnah Wampanoag and the Seneca said today they are primarily interested in building a casino in that region, but would also consider sites in Boston and Western Massachusetts, according to a statement. The Aquinnah Wampanoag have not settled on a location.
"We have a proven track record of bringing casino projects to completion in neighboring New York," said Maurice A. John Sr., president of the Seneca Nation. "We are very honored to be working with the Aquinnah Wampanoag and we want to help the Wampanoag replicate that success here in Massachusetts ... Our casinos are beautifully designed and constructed, and faithful to the cultural traditions of Native Americans."
The Seneca Gaming Corp. was established in 2002 and built the Niagara Casino & Hotel in Niagara Falls, Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel in Salamanca, N.Y., and the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino in Buffalo.
Under terms of the agreement announced today at a press conference at the Omni Parker House in downtown Boston, the Seneca will help the Aquinnah Wampanoag analyze market conditions, obtain financing, negotiate with public officials, and secure a license, which under Patrick’s plan would be sold at auction.
