Politics & Government
Everett Mayor Criticizes Curtatone, Menino Over Casino Opposition
Everett's mayor said he was "disappointed" with Somerville's mayor, and he called Boston's mayor a "bully" because they oppose a casino in Everett, the Boston Globe reported.
During a Friday press conference, Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria sniped at Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino over their opposition to an Everett casino proposal, according to the Boston Globe.
DeMaria said he was "disappointed that Mayor Curtatone seeks to derail a project that could revolutionize my community," the Globe reported.
Curtatone has spoken forcefully against the Everett casino proposal, which would be right on Somerville's doorstep, and recently joined a coalition of state leaders seeking to repeal the 2011 gambling law that allows casinos.
Everett's mayor called Menino a "bully" who is opposing the Everett casino plan, proposed by Steve Wynn, in order to support a rival casino proposal, by Caesar's Palace, at Suffolk Downs, the Globe says.
According to the newspaper, Menino has argued that part of the proposed Everett casino actually lies in Charlestown, and that Boston should be considered a "host community," giving it greater say in approving or denying the proposal.
In response to DeMaria's comments, Curtatone said he opposes both casino proposals, saying neither are "good, sustainable economic development," the Globe reported.
It says Menino responded by saying, "I'm not bullying … I'm just trying to protect the residents of our city, especially Charlestown. If that's bullying, then too bad."
More on the Everett casino proposal
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