Holyoke has a deal with MGM Resorts International for money and benefits to offset the impact of a proposed casino in Springfield, Massachusetts.
The Springfield Republican reports the "surrounding community" agreement announced Monday calls for MGM to pay Holyoke $50,000 up front and nearly $1.28 million over 15 years if it gets a state casino license, and also to provide residents with "hundreds of permanent job opportunities."
Holyoke is the only non-abutting community that MGM has given surrounding community status. Several nearby communities also have impact agreements with MGM.
MGM's Springfield project is the only remaining western Massachusetts proposal after voters in Palmer and West Springfield rejected plans from other companies.
Under the state gambling law, three resort casino licenses may be issued, also including one each in eastern and southeastern Massachusetts.
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