West Warwick Council Fired Casino Negotiator

WEST WARWICK, Rhode Island – As reported by the Rhode Island Providence Journal: "The Town Council has fired its chief negotiator with Harrah's Entertainment, just days before it hoped to restart talks with the company over its proposed casino venture.

"Town Manager Wolfgang Bauer yesterday contacted William A. Poore, of Poore & Rosenbaum, to sever ties with the Providence-based law firm. Poore had worked for West Warwick for 1 1/2 years, and the town has paid the firm nearly $73,000.

"Councilman Leo J. Costantino Jr., a casino opponent, immediately criticized the decision, which is expected to be finalized at a Town Council meeting tonight. He said Poore had unflinchingly advocated for the town's interests and suggested that the lawyer had upset casino advocates on the council who favor generous concessions.

"…Council President Jeanne-Marie DiMasi asserted that Poore had failed to invite council members to negotiations with Harrah's or to advocate for their priorities. DiMasi said the council will hire the Warwick-based law firm Lynch & Friel at a meeting tonight. Lawyer John Lynch, a partner, declined comment yesterday…"