by KYW’s Jim Melwert
Mayor Michael Nutter signed legislation Sunday that clears the way for a casino in Center City's Gallery Mall.
The legislation amends zoning laws and allows for a commercial entertainment district in the Market East area and it passed city council on Thursday. Before he signed the bills, Mayor Nutter met with concerned community leaders from Chinatown including John Chin of the Chinatown Development Corporation:
"There's research out there that Asian American communities are a target of predatory gambling."
Nutter says he understands community concerns, but adds his options are limited since state law mandates there are to be two casinos in the city.
After he signed the legislation, Nutter said in an emailed statement, that this is just the beginning of a process, and there will be more opportunities for dialogue and debate.
The Foxwoods Casino was originally proposed for the riverfront, and a move must be approved by the State Gaming Control Board.
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