Tiverton Could Lose $3.1M In Casino Payments

TIVERTON, RI — Two Tiverton lawmakers are calling for Twin River to pay back money owed to the to help support the upcoming budget, which is still under development. The sudden closure of the casino due to the coronavirus pandemic has left town officials scrambling to potentially make up for a sizable hole in revenue.

As part of the agreement between the town and casino operators, Twin River must pay $3.1 million each year. Since the casino is closed indefinitely due to the coronavirus, it's unsure if the payment will be made this year.

"Twin River has been a wonderful town partner since opening the casino’s doors and the town has financially benefited from their presence," said Rep. Dennis Canario. "But, due to these truly unprecedented times, the annual payment which the town counts on is uncertain. As the town’s budget process continues, it is imperative that they know what the town has to work with in regard to finances and this $3.1 million payment is integral to our budget."

Canario continued to say that he and House Majority Whip John Edwards will continue to advocate for the town, ensuring that "the current budget is not further devastated by a $3.1 million budget shortfall, causing harm to the town services and projects that the residents of Tiverton rely upon on a daily basis."

The lawmakers are considering several options, including payments made throughout the year.

"After a number of discussions with the town of Tiverton, we’ve come to understand that the town would be open to a prorated payment plan as long as it’s by quarter and not the whole course of the year," Rep. Edwards said.