Medford Concerned With Potential Casinos Nearby

– Allison Goldsberry

Mayor Michael McGlynn said the city is developing a casino mitigation plan in the event a major casino is developed in either Everett or East Boston.

Speaking at a press conference last week, Mayor McGlynn said a casino in either location would cause “heartache” for Medford. The city’s primary concerns are increased traffic and public safety. The Mayor cited studies that indicated thousands of additional car trips in the Wellington Glennwood neighborhood should a casino be developed nearby. He also said there could potentially be an increase in crime.

The city is planning as though a casino will go in either Everett or East Boston to “be prepared,” said Mayor McGlynn.

Medford has established email addresses to receive feedback from citizens with their own concerns about a potential casino, casinocomments@medford.org or casinoconcerns@medford.org.

The Medford City Council is also holding a public hearing on Tuesday, June 18 about the possible impact of a nearby casino on Medford. The hearing is taking place at 7:00PM at Medford City Hall.