PALMER, Mass. — Results changed only slightly Tuesday after a recount of the Nov. 5 election when residents rejected a $1 billion Mohegan Sun casino proposal — subtracting a single “yes” ballot to make the winning margin 94 votes instead of 93.
The results are now 2,563 in favor and 2,657 against. The number of votes against the casino remained unchanged, but the “yes” votes declined by one.
“It went well, and I’m proud of my workers,” said Town Clerk Susan Coache after the recount was done. It was concluded around 3 p.m.
This ends a five-year effort by Mohegan Sun to win over locals as they pursued a casino on a 152-acre site.
Mohegan Sun said in a statement: “Like so many people in Palmer, we were deeply disappointed in the results of the November 5th referendum — which were confirmed with today’s recount.”
They are still interested in the land. Mohegan Sun said, “We wish Palmer the best and remain committed to exploring commercial development there that will benefit the entire community.”
Under police escort, ballots from the Nov. 5 vote that narrowly defeated a $1 billion casino proposal from Mohegan Sun were rolled into the town’s library Tuesday morning for a recount.
The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, based in Uncasville, Conn., asked for the recount but conceded as recently as Friday that it stands little chance of overturning the vote. Residents in the townwide election defeated the proposal by 93 votes, 2,657 to 2,564.