SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – We continue our coverage on MGM Springfield, and 22News heard from business owners concerned about the economic impact this could have on the city.
When a big celebrity comes to western Massachusetts for a show with MGM Springfield, Nadim’s Downtown Mediterranean Grill books out customers, sometimes even two weeks in advance.
“It will be devastating news for the city of Springfield if MGM picks up and leaves,” says Owner Nadim Kashouh. This benefit that the casino has had on local businesses is undeniable Nadim says, and reports that it may be up for sale, which could be a huge loss for the city, and the region. MGM Springfield has been the city’s largest taxpayer. Kashouh adds, “Big shoes to fill. If they leave, I don’t know who is going to come and replace that.”
In a report by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, in the last quarter of 2023, MGM Springfield made just over $66 million in gaming revenue, putting about $16 million of that right back into the Commonwealth.
Also in the last quarter, the report shows there was an 8% increase in employment at MGM Springfield, with nearly 1,500 employees. State leaders say they need to be protected if the casino is in fact for sale.
22News spoke with State Senator Adam Gomez, who says, “I would think that to try to figure out where these folks are going to land, especially during this economic time, I think we just have to make sure these individuals stay there…because they are counting on those jobs.” Senator Gomez says that if MGM Springfield does end up selling, state legislators will make sure the next company is well-vetted, and that they follow through on any host community agreements.
Mayor Domenic Sarno says that he has set up a meeting with the President and CEO of MGM Resorts International to discuss the future of this property. No further details on that meeting have been announced.
Kristina D’Amours is a reporter who is a part of the evening 22News team. Follow Kristina on X @KristinaD_WWLP and view her bio to see more of her work.