Mitchell: Tiverton Casino Proposal May Give Mass. Gaming Commish Second Thoughts

How does a proposal to move a Rhode Island casino closer to the Massachusetts border affect New Bedford's chances for it's own gambling venue?

Twin River, which owns Newport Grand, is proposing a move from Newport to Tiverton, possibly to compete with New Bedford's waterfront casino proposal, and the hopes of a casino in Somerset.

Speaking on his weekly radio program, New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell says it's a smart business move on Twin River's behalf, and is strategically aimed at making the Massachusetts Gaming Commission think twice about another casino license in the state, "They know that might give the Gaming Commission pause here in Massachusetts. So, it's all a way of positioning Rhode Island so that the Gaming Commission might have second thoughts."

Tiverton voters would first have to approve the proposal before any action is taken. Twin River is looking to get the question on the November 2016 ballot.