2011-10-27-HATS-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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HATS Meeting October 27, 2011 Final Meeting Minutes issued for the Record Members Present Deb Mauger, Lexington Selectmen(Chair), Michael Rosenberg, Bedford Selectmen; Sara Mattes, Lincoln Selectmen; Sharon Williams, Massport; Lisa Mustapich, Bedford Planning Board; Dorothy Steele, Massport; Bob, Lincoln Planning Board Not in attendance- Elise Woodward, Concord Selectmen; Doris Cole, Concord Planning Board Others present. Sen Susan Fargo, Rep Jay Kaufman, Margaret Coppe, Lexington School Committee; Peter Braun, Lincoln Selectmen Ms. Mauger opened the meeting at 7:39 p.m., welcomed everyone and gave introductions. Elect Chair to Pro Tern: Mr. Rosenberg nominated Ms. Mauger as Chair Pro Tem in Ms. Woodward's absence. Ms. Mattes seconded the motion. Vote: Approved Conversations with members of Legislative Delegations: Casino bills Senator Susan Fargo indicated the casino bill will likely pass this year(it did not pass last year), as there is currently a strong focus on jobs and revenue. There is currently little information available on the cost benefit analysis and this bill will pose a challenge for the local communities. Some details of the bill and casino options were discussed to include an amendment to eliminate of free drinks Also a smoking ban is included in the bill this time The Gaming Commission will be appointed rather than elected and given particular authority, having political power that may be perceived as unconstitutional. A provision to compensate the towns for the additional public safety personnel needed to police the roadways around a casino area was discussed. It was explained that there has been an attempt to mitigate the impact on community neighborhoods but this too is a challenge The Committee discussed concerns including statistics concerning the negative impact to those who already struggle with an addiction to gambling, as well as the negative impact of casinos on foreclosure, theft and small business closings. There is concern that a casino will negatively impact the rich history of Massachusetts, which is currently ranked 3rd in the nation for tourism. There was a discussion regarding the political environment leading to an approval for a casino bill and of casinos in neighboring states that are not doing well There was a discussion of action items, what can be done by communities, the risk to local aid and lottery money, and the effect on public policy There were some questions from those attending the meeting. One was from Peter Braun, Lincoln Selectmen, who asked what might be done if one of the provisions is unconstitutional. Ms. Fargo has contacted the Secretary of State's office and but as it will take resources to address this Ms Fargo suggested there be a number of local queries regarding community interests Rep. Kaufman, despite his own position, challenged HATS members by suggesting they ask the following question: what is in it for our local community and how much should be invested? A