Council voids planning board opposition to racino

Friday, Nov. 26, 2004 | 9:11 a.m.

BANGOR, Maine -- Despite unexpected opposition from the planning board, Maine's first racetrack casino is back on track.

The City Council voted 7-1 on Monday to override the planning board's recommendation against a new zoning district that would allow Penn National to begin construction in May on a $75 million racino containing 1,500 slot machines at the city's Bass Park complex.

With the council having the final say, Councilor Dan Tremble made it clear Tuesday that the board's 3-2 vote last week on the zoning measure would not derail the project.

"It's smooth sailing, and slots will be coming to Bangor," Tremble said. "We're comfortable that the people of Bangor voted for this, and we're moving forward."

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