(NECN: Katelyn Tivnan) - Worcester is still on the table when it comes to a possible gaming facility in Massachusetts. Tuesday, 11 developers filed applications with the states gaming commission.
Worcester was not named as a location, but city leaders say it’s still an option.
"We've had approximately 5-6 entities talk to us over the past year that look at Worcester as a potential,” says city manager Mike O’Brien.
He says the vacant Wyman Gordon property in Worcester is now under agreement with the company.
In a letter to the city, their CEO, Richard Friedmand, says they have a long term interest in developing a luxury hotel in Worcester.
He says in part: "We are not a gaming facility developer or operator and do not intend to become one. We are however interested in exploring how a gaming facility in Worcester would help the development and operations of a new hotel."
"The manager and myself received a letter from Mr. Friedman who stated he has control of the Wyman Gordon property and that he'd be working with a casino developer if one does come through,” says Mayor Joseph Petty.
Friedman says the company wants to team up with a gaming developer who has submitted an application.
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City councilor Konnie Lukes says she's not all in.
"I’m curious as to the strategy of dangling a 4-star hotel in front of us to get us to agree on some type of gaming parlor," she said.
She questions if the 14-acre property and its location could support a casino or hotel.
Meanwhile, the city manager says there are many more questions to be answered.
"What it would look like how it would function what it would do with our economic development goals in the city so its preliminary at best and these entities are just getting pre-qualified," O'Brien said.
