MGM Springfield ‘surprised’ by drinking hour legislation

Aug. 24, 2017 | Chris Maza
chrism@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD – MGM Springfield Vice President and General Counsel Seth Stratton told the City Council’s Casino Oversight Committee the gaming company had no idea legislation allowing for extended alcohol service hours was being developed.
 

Stratton added MGM did not make any request related to that subject.

“We were frankly almost as surprised as some,” he said.

When City Councilor Michael Fenton expressed disbelief that one of the major gaming license holders in the Commonwealth was not consulted in such a decision, Stratton replied, “One of my functions is governor relations and I heard nothing.”

With that, he added MGM Springfield would be “evaluating the pros and cons” of extended drinking hours and “likely will pursue some flexibility” regarding service hours on the gaming floor. He said MGM Springfield is six to nine months away from seeking its beverage license.

“This is not automatic,” he said, stating the legislation gives the Gaming Commission authority to grant a license with extended hours. Alcohol sales in that case would be prohibited between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m.

He said the license was still “subject to the discretion of the Gaming Commission” and while local government could not override any decision, he anticipated the commission would consult the host community for feedback before making a decision.

Stratton also explained to the committee the legislation is limited to what would be considered the gaming portion of the casino and does not extend to other dining or pouring establishments acting as tenants in the building. The current plans for the gaming floor incudes bar areas, including a larger center bar. The center bar would be a lounge somewhat segregated from the rest of the floor by half walls or other barriers, but still within the designated gaming area. Stratton said there would most likely be occasional live music and some table service.

Fenton asked whether the center bar would offer food, which he said would present an unfair advantage over other local establishments, especially when tied in with “happy hour” drink specials. Stratton said it was not likely the bar would serve food and stressed the casino could offer drink specials to casino guests, but would not have “happy hour” promotions.

Fenton also asked whether the legislation would extend to dining areas that might have games within them. Stratton said there were not plans for such establishments at the casino, but under the law, it was his understanding that they would qualify for extended hours.

City Solicitor Ed Pikula told the committee “where we have control, there will not be a change” to alcohol serving hours.

In other casino-related business, the City Council approved the plans for the latest round of signage for the casino, which were recommended by the Casino Oversight Committee.

Phil Dromey Deputy Director of Planning told the Oversight Committee his department was “overall extremely pleased” with the plans that “relate to the Industrial Chic design” MGM Springfield had developed for the building.

The signs will be stationary and eternally illuminated, meaning they will not flash. Fenton told the City Council before its vote the only signage that would not be static is the previously approved digital sign slated for the parking garage.

The Council also approved several street projects related to the project – MGM Way, which would connect Bliss and State streets, the widening of Union and Bliss streets, and the widening and a cul de sac on Howard Street.

Department of Public Works Director Chris Cignoli also noted the city and MGM recently agreed upon maintenance requirements for those streets.

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