Lawrence, MA, Not on Board with New Hampshire’s Salem Casino

The Planning Board in Salem, New Hampshire, recently approved a new casino project that would be located in a former Lord & Taylor store at The Mall at Rockingham Park. While many rejoiced at the approval, the city council of Lawrence in nearby Massachusetts fears that the casino would expose vulnerable groups in the area to risks.

For reference, the casino is set to be developed by Joe Faro and Sal Lupoli and the Cordish Companies and will be located almost 7 miles away from Lawrence.

The Casino Could Harm the Locals

According to Lawrence city councilors, the new casino could potentially expose locals to risks of addiction and poverty. In addition to that, it could also lead to crime, such as sex trafficking and drug trade.

The Lawrence City Council has long opposed the casino and had passed a resolution against it prior to the recent vote. It argued that the new gambling property would expose local low-income workers, the elderly and the disabled to significant risks.

The council argued that casinos’ free bets and promotions are a predatory tactic to make people visit regularly. It also argued that the Salem casino’s business model would leverage such incentives to encourage people to come several times a week. As a result, many may develop life-shattering addictions leading to debt, broken relationships and domestic violence.

Lawrence City Council members also pointed out that gambling addiction has the highest suicide rate out of any addiction.

Opposition Ramps Up

The Lawrence City Council isn’t the only opponent of the casino. Amy Manzelli, a lawyer representing Jamie and Chris Cummings who own a nearby property, raised concerns about the project.

Manzelli suggested that the casino could lead to crime, potentially jeopardizing public safety. Additionally, she said that the project will likely affect traffic and lighting.

Most of these concerns were refuted by the proponents of the casino. The police vowed to uphold the law, while the Planning Board expressed confidence in the project’s traffic studies. The public has also voiced support for the casino.

According to experts, the $160 million casino will generate $31 million in tax revenue. This money will support various initiatives and charities in the state. The property is also projected to generate hundreds of new jobs, providing new opportunities to workers in New Hampshire.

In other news, a report suggested that two Las Vegas-based companies have expressed interest in buying Concord Casino in New Hampshire.