Gaming Commission Begins Review Of Slots Parlor Applicants

Massachusetts gambling regulators have opened deliberations on the state's first and only slots parlor license.

    The gambling commission convened a meeting on Tuesday to discuss building and site design and finance, two of the five major criteria being used to evaluate three proposals.

    A report from Commissioner James McHugh, who oversaw the building and site review, gave solid ratings of ``sufficient to very good'' for both the Plainridge harness racetrack in Plainville operated by Penn National Gaming and the slots parlor proposed by Cordish Cos. in Leominister.

    Raynham Park was rated ``sufficient to insufficient.''

    Commissioner Enrique Zuniga, who evaluated the financial capabilities of the applicants, gave Plainville the top grade of'' `'very good to outstanding.''. Cordish received a ``very good'' rating, while Raynham trailed with a grade of ``sufficient to very good.'' 

   The Commission is expected to award the license on Friday.  (Associated Press)