PLAINS TWP. - Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs deserves to stay, community leaders advocated Thursday.
The state Gaming Control Board held a hearing Thursday to gather evidence, including public comment, on the license renewal of Downs Racing, which operates Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Under the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, all licenses are subject to renewal every three years.
The board advertised the opportunity for citizens, community groups and elected officials to offer testimony at the hearing, but only the three community leaders signed up to speak.
Plains Twp. Commissioner Chairman Ron Filippini told the state Gaming Control Board that Plains Twp. and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs have kept a good relationship throughout the casino's six years of operation.
"Since the initial opening of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, the township has experienced growth, especially along state Route 315 corridor and East Mountain Drive. This growth has caused an increase in demand for township emergency services," Mr. Filippini said. "Fortunately, we have been able to keep up with these additional demands and have enhanced and improved our abilities to deliver these services with no additional taxes on the township level."
As the host community for the casino, Plains Twp. received about $3 million from slots and table revenue last year, Mr. Filippini said. Among the investments with gaming funds, Plains Twp. bought a 100-foot aerial truck to replace a 20-year-old ladder truck.
Mike Bean, president and general manager of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, said the casino employs 1,750 people and will employ 2,000 after its hotel opens. The casino's leaders serve on more than 20 local community boards, he said.
Bill Jones, president and CEO of the United Way of Wyoming Valley, called Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs "one of the most community-minded corporate citizens in Northeastern Pennsylvania."
As far as crime, Sgt. Michael McTavish, who handles law enforcement at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, said there has not been an increase in criminal incidents at the casino over the past three years. He said the incidents are minor and declined despite the introduction of table games in 2010.
Linda Lloyd, director of hearings and appeals, said the Gaming Control Board will review the testimony from Thursday's hearing. The next step is to hold a public hearing in Harrisburg where board members can ask additional questions.
Contact the writer: dallabaugh@citizensvoice.com