Taunton residents vote in favor of a casino along Route 24

TAUNTON (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) Despite mixed reaction from voters at poll stations, Taunton residents voted in favor of bringing a casino to their community.

Poll workers say more people came out to cast their ballot on Saturday than during a political election.

Residents outside polling stations shared their thoughts on the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe's plans to build a casino right off of Route 24 in East Taunton.

"It's a tough economy and everybody is feeling it, but I don't feel that this is a good move for the direction of Taunton," says Zita Cambra.

Voters in opposition to the proposed casino held signs outside one polling station all day. They say it has nothing to do with gambling and everything to do with the fact that it would be built close to an elementary school. Those opposing the casino add that the tribe wouldn't be held accountable for the negative things that a casino might bring into Taunton.

Meanwhile, those in favor of a casino in Taunton say it is going to come into a nearby town anyway, so why not Taunton?

"People need jobs nowadays, and I think this is the best thing to happen in town, it's gonna come into one of the towns anyway," says James Cook.

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe must now reach a compact with the state by July 31.

Plans were recently abandoned for a proposed casino in Foxborough. Last week, Lakeville and Freetown residents voted down casino plans.

While several towns have opted out of the running for a casino, renderings for a casino at Revere's Suffolk Downs were recently released. There are also proposals for casinos in Milford and Palmer. There is some interest in New Bedford and Springfield locations.

Cox Media Group