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Connecticut Officials Optimistic About New Gaming Contract Proposal15 October 2002BRIDGEPORT, Connecticut – As reported by the New Haven Register: " Several City Council committee members said Monday they are "cautiously optimistic" that a modified version of a contract that would allow the Golden Hill Paugussetts to open a casino will move on to the full council. "…The committee previously postponed a decision on the proposal, but several members said they believe it could be forwarded to the full council for consideration. "`A lot of City Council members say they are for the idea of a casino complex, but they have some questions they need answered and addressed before they make a final determination,' said Charles D. Clemons Jr., D-139, contract committee co-chairman. "…Clemons said one main question is whether the city should sign an agreement with the Trumbull-based tribe before the tribe receives federal recognition from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The tribe cannot open a casino unless it receives federal recognition. "…Bridgeport stands to get about 10 percent of slot-machine revenue from a casino, estimated to be $50 million to $60 million, and Waterbury would get 3 percent, or about $18 million, said tribal attorney Bernard Wishnia. Economically distressed cities such as New Haven, West Haven, Ansonia and Derby would stand to gain a share of about $20 million in slot revenues. "…If the panel approves the measure by a 4-3 majority, it will go to the full council Oct. 21. "…A caucus of eight council members, led by Clemons, is lobbying for a tribal contract, but Councilman Thomas J. Freer, R-130, the lone republican, is not embracing a casino…" |