Bloomberg recently reported MGM Resorts International is considering selling its casino in Springfield, Massachusetts. Company officials have not commented.
But during an update on downtown redevelopment activities, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said he has met with MGM officials, urging them to continue operations in the city. He added MGM is “the cream of the crop” and a major player in the revitalization of downtown Springfield.
Sarno said if MGM does sell the property, he would want assurances that the host community agreement between the casino and the city would extend to a new operator. “A new owner would have to be a brand and a vision that has the financial sustainability and the marketing aspects to continue to move the entertainment complex forward,” Sarno said, per New England Public Media.
Opened in 2018, MGM Springfield has not achieved financial or hiring forecasts. In addition, it was closed for several months in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Any new operator would have to be approved by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission which oversees casinos, racetracks and sports betting.
