Just a few days ago, the news broke that MGM Resorts International was in talks with Wynn Resorts for the possible sale of the $2.6 billion Encore Boston Harbor Casino. The venue is expected to open next month after enduring a long investigation by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission which resulted in Wynn maintaining their license.

Talks Cease

MGM Resorts owns the MGM Springfield casino and would have had to sell that property in order to operate the Encore. The announcement of the potential sale worried officials of Everett, the home city of the venue. Wynn has now confirmed that they have agreed to cease discussions with MGM on the matter.

According to the Boston Herald…

MGM International Resorts spokesman Brian Ahern commented: “We are committed to our Springfield community and proud of what we have accomplished including thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of revenue for small businesses in the area. We will always explore ways to deepen our engagement in the Commonwealth. Our discussions regarding the Everett resort were in that spirit. We have noted the anxiety raised by various stakeholders regarding a transaction and this troubles us at MGM.”

Ahern went on to state that MGM only wants to have a positive impact on the communities where they operate. They think the best action now is to stop discussions that concern this opportunity. The company wishes Wynn Resorts and the Everett community the best and look forward to visiting the resort when it opens.

Stirring the Pot:

When the news of the talks broke last week, it started a chain reaction in the Everett and Springfield communities. Both were worried about their respective venues and employment. The city of Everett is happy that talks have ceased. City Councilor, Mike McLaughlin, stated that he is ‘beyond pleased’ that the discussions are over.

The plans are to continue to normal with the casino opening, with the Gaming Commission hosting a meeting this week to discuss an alcohol permit for the venue. The casino would like to be able to server drinks until 4 a.m.

The Encore in Boston will have new transportation options once it opens, after Wynn announced a ferry option earlier their month. Four boats are set to be running by the time the venue opens to provide transportation to the venue.