MGM Springfield to Reduce Scope of Casino Project

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) _ MGM officials are defending their latest proposed changes to their $800 million casino.

MGM Springfield President Michael Mathis said Tuesday that "90 percent'' of the proposed 14 percent reduction in the size of the casino represents ``back of house space'' that ``does not impact consumers.''

He apologized for not communicating the changes to the mayor's office earlier, adding that officials expect to meet with City Hall staff soon.

MGM remains committed to everything it promised, including thousands of jobs, millions in revenue for the city and the state and a world class resort, Mathis said.

The comments come after Mayor Domenic Sarno earlier Tuesday said it was ``incomprehensible'' MGM would not have mentioned the changes before.

The changes were revealed in a state environmental filing MGM submitted late last week.