The state has discussed selling the XL Center - formerly known as the Hartford Civic Center- in downtown Hartford to the tribes, who would renovate and add gambling and other amenities to the arena, according to a source close to the negotiations cited by the same newspaper. He is calling for Connecticut’s two federally recognized Indian tribes to drop long-standing plans for an East Windsor casino in exchange for sports betting and other enticements, officials said, as reported by Hartford Courant. Ned Lamont has sought to break a gambling stalemate over casino expansion in the state. The proposal has only been discussed in concept so far, and has surfaced as Gov. Talks between the state and the tribes are expected to resume this week.Ī deal between the state and Connecticut’s two federally recognized Indian tribes could lead to an extensive renovation of the XL Center and the introduction of casino-style gambling to the Capital city. Lamont's main goal is to avoid litigation. The Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes have been unwilling to give up East Windsor site, and MGM has long said it would sue to block its opening.
