Operator News

US – Mohegan Sun waiting in the wings for Wynn

By Phil - 3 December 2018

Mohegan Sun, operator of one of the biggest casinos in America in Connecticut, has confirmed it is waiting in the wings to buy the $2.5bn Encore Boston Harbor casino in Everett if Wynn Resorts is found unsuitable by state regulators.

For the last ten months the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has been investigating whether Wynn Resorts kept details of its former boss’ Steve Wynn’s sexual harassment and assault charges.

The decision on whether Wynn remains a suitable candidate to operate a casino in Everett is expected soon. Mohegan Sun’s stance is seen as giving the Gaming Commission an easy way out from its high-stakes dilemma.

Mohegan Sun said: “If that determination finds Wynn Resorts unsuitable to hold a gaming license in Massachusetts, Mohegan Sun is prepared to participate in a process that would assign that license to another operator — and enter into negotiations with the appropriate parties to acquire the facility under construction in Everett. Mohegan Sun has always believed it is the best choice as gaming operator and license holder for a Region A resort casino, and will be committed to opening the Everett facility in a timely manner should it get the opportunity.”

Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria has already rejected the idea of Mohegan Sun could become the casino’s operator.

“Mohegan Sun is not welcome to operate a casino in the City of Everett,” he said. “We made a deal with Wynn Resorts to operate a 5-star international destination resort and I will never accept anything less, certainly not a gaming parlor that would be used to protect their interests in Connecticut at the expense of our community and residents. Wynn Resorts’ partnership with Everett and the Commonwealth runs far deeper than a building with slot machines.”

Wynn spokesman Greg John slammed the move by Mohegan by saying: “We’re not going to comment on such a self-serving proposition.”