Possible new casino for Maine stirs up controversy

Hollywood Casino employs 356 people, contributes $9 million annually to other businesses in the state, and donates $100,000 annually to local charities.

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The Bangor Chamber, as well as the Hollywood Casino are pleading with legislators to vote against the proposal.

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That is something that Neuman fears will change with the possible creation of a new casino in Southern Maine.

She said that the problem is that “more casinos in the state don’t necessarily mean more customers. More likely what will happen is that the existing customers, who are now coming to Hollywood Casino, may go elsewhere. Because they will have more options to choose from. So that's a big concern.”

A bill being discussed in Augusta would create that third casino. That's why the Bangor Chamber, as well as the Hollywood Casino are pleading with legislators to vote against the proposal.

Hollywood Casino General Manager Jose Flores said: “We just don't believe that the economy of Maine can sustain a third gaming operator without negatively impacting the two existing operators, Oxford and Bangor.”

But some lawmakers say a new casino could have a positive effect for the region, like Senator Ronald Collins, who co-sponsors the bill. He said that he sees “a lot of plusses” and that “the voters will decide.”

The House voted Wednesday afternoon against that bill, 85 to 61. It will be brought to the senate Thursday for discussion.