West Warwick casino opponents propose gambling restrictions

Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2000 | 9 a.m.

One bill would ban gambling within a mile of a school. The tribe wants to build the $250 million casino within 500 feet of the Greenbush Elementary School.

The second measure would require investors with more than a 5 percent interest in a casino to file extensive financial documents with state officials, The Providence Journal reported Wednesday.

"Casinos impact the quality of life in a community," said Rep. Richard Fleury, R-West Warwick, who filed the bills with Rep. Leona Kelley, R-South Kingstown. "Something that is that significant should require full disclosure at the beginning of the process ... ."

The Narragansetts have tried to open a gambling hall in Rhode Island for eight years, but have been blocked by Gov. Lincoln Almond and other state officials.

Unlike other federally recognized tribes, the Narragansetts have an agreement with Rhode Island that subjects them to state gambling law, which requires voter approval before any casino can be built

In 1994, voters rejected proposed casinos in five different communities. Last summer, West Warwick voters approved the casino in a nonbinding referendum. Still, residents closest to the site have vowed to block the tribe's plans.

The tribe announced two weeks ago it will buy out its contract with Capital Gaming Development Inc. of Phoenix and replace them with Boyd Gaming Corp. of Las Vegas.