Politics & Government

Neighboring Tewksbury Rejects Slots Parlor on Andover Border

Some Andover residents had feared a casino would have been bad news — bringing increased traffic and possibly crime.

Written by Christopher Gambon

In a decision that has been closely-watched by Andover residents, Tewksbury voters rejected a proposed zoning bylaw amendment that would have allowed a slots-only casino near the Andover line.

More than 2,000 voters turned out to Special Town Meeting Tuesday night at Tewksbury Memorial High School, with 1,568 votes against the proposed zoning changes and 995 in favor.

A total of 1,709 votes in favor would have been required for the proposed zoning bylaw amendment to pass, according to Town Clerk Denise Graffeo.

The zoning amendment required a two-thirds majority vote to pass, and Special Town Meeting approval was required for the proposal to move forward.

Penn National Gaming proposed a slots-only casino off of Ames Pond Drive in Tewksbury in July. The location is near the Andover border. Some residents had feared a casino would bring more traffic and possibly crime. Others welcomed the economic development gambling might cause. 


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