West Warwick hold public meeting

WEST WARWICK, Rhode Island – As reported by the Providence Journal: "At a Town Council hearing last night on its proposed casino host-community agreement with Harrah's Entertainment, residents urged that the council demand more money in a "hold-harmless" fund that would indemnify householders from sagging property values if the casino is built in the West Warwick Business Park.

"The agreement, released last week, sets aside $750,000 to compensate nearby homeowners for any potential declines in property values. If the money in the fund is not used within three years, the agreement stipulates, the money would revert back to Harrah's.

"…Last night's forum, in the auditorium of West Warwick High School, was the first of a scheduled two on the host agreement. The council will take a final vote on the agreement immediately after holding the second hearing, on Nov. 1 at 7 p.m., also in the school auditorium.

"After a brief presentation outlining the agreement, most members of the council stated their intended vote and gave their reasoning. Council members Leo Costantino and Peter F. Calci Jr., both casino opponents, said they would not approve the agreement. Member Jeanne-Marie DiMasi said that she would vote to approve it, citing the revenue the town stands to gain from property taxes on the casino alone…"