Politics & Government

Foxborough Residents Opposed to Casino Seek Response from Kraft Group

Foxborough residents opposed to a casino seek out response from the Kraft Group.

A representative for a group of Foxborough residents opposed to the prospect of a casino in town, are taking their concerns to the direct source - the Kraft Group.

The group was seeking a response to a list of demands that included a public statement from the Kraft Group "as to why they decided to present a casino proposal after the board of selectmen had voted in down in September; an anonymous list of the reactions of all 20-24 people in the closed-door meetings; and a crystal clear measure by which Kraft/Wynn will gauge community reaction during the public hearing on the 17th (tentative).

The letter stated the groups concern "that Kraft and Wynn may have received very negative feedback during those meetings but are ignoring it."

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The group further stated, "in addition, we want an officer of the Kraft organization on hand at the meeting day to make a definitive decision on-the-spot, as to whether to drop the casino project or pursue, based on the decision-points/metrics defined before the meeting."

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Jeff Cournoyer, spokesman for The Kraft Group, responded that they are always looking for opportunities that create jobs and revenue for the Town of Foxborough and noted that they "vet those opportunities and present them to the town."

"If the town chooses to go forward, we do. We believe that Wynn Resorts presents a unique opportunity that is worth the town’s consideration," he stated.

Cournoyer noted that as Steve Wynn stated publicly Monday, "what is appropriate for Las Vegas is in no way appropriate for Foxborough, and that he would design a unique destination specifically suited to the town." 

Some Foxborough residents about supporting the idea of "at least seeing the proposal," but have not officially made up their minds. Others see the proposal as a good thing for the community, as it is anticipated to bring in over 10,000 jobs.

"I would like to see the proposal. I don't know if I will support it or not, but we need jobs, so I am willing to listen and respect Mr. Kraft and Mr. Wynn's right to show it," said Foxborough resident Rob Lued.

Cournoyer added that "over the last five days, we’ve heard from many residents who are interested in hearing Mr. Wynn’s proposal and what it would mean in terms of job creation and direct revenue to the town, which could secure its financial future and enhance its schools and other services."

"Wynn Resorts has expressed an interest in presenting a proposal that residents would have the opportunity to review through a process outlined by the legislation. The process will provide residents with the opportunity to hear as complete a proposal as possible -- including information on jobs, revenues and how a resort would complement the character of the town -- and then vote on it through a ballot referendum. Wynn Resorts has begun working on a proposal, and we look forward to all of the residents of Foxborough having the opportunity to review it when it’s completed," stated Cournoyer. "In the end, it will be up to the residents of Foxborough to decide if they want to pursue this opportunity."

Residents opposed to the casino plan to gather at the Ahern Middle School Thursday evening to express their concerns before a planning board meeting which will discuss that could pave the way for convention centers and a multi story hotel on Route 1.


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