SugarHouse funds community nonprofit

SugarHouse Casino signed a community agreement with two neighborhood groups yesterday to fund a new nonprofit organization for delivering special services to the surrounding area.

SugarHouse would annually contribute at least $1 million to the nonprofit. After three years, the sum could increase to $1.5 million.

But two neighborhood groups that oppose the casino project refused to negotiate with SugarHouse and said the agreement might not meet the company's obligation to garner community support.

State Rep. Michael O'Brien, whose district includes the casino, has wanted to see a special-services district created under state law. Such a district would have more oversight, as well as the power to assess fees.

Matt Rubin, president of the Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association, which did not negotiate with the company, said the pact is "a private agreement between two parties. It has nothing to do with special-services districts that are created through legislation." The Fishtown Neighbors Association likewise did not negotiate with the casino.

SugarHouse is trying to build a slots parlor on 22 acres straddling Fishtown and Northern Liberties on Delaware Avenue near Frankford Avenue. The project has divided the surrounding community.

The SugarHouse agreement was signed with Fishtown Action, a pro-casino neighborhood group formed when the project won a casino license, and the New Kensington Community Development Corp.

"We are very pleased we have been able to reach an agreement with these groups that will maximize the benefits of our development to the immediate community," said Greg Carlin, SugarHouse's chief executive officer.

In addition to creating the nonprofit, SugarHouse has agreed to:

Hire local residents and contractors.

Create internships and job-training programs for neighbors.

Create public access to the waterfront.

Create opportunities for local businesses.

Appoint a full-time community liaison.

"We believe that this agreement addresses many of the community's concerns while providing our neighbors and local businesses with significant opportunities to benefit from this project," said Maggie O'Brien, president of Fishtown Action.

Richard Levins, president of the New Kensington CDC, said the agreement "represents an investment and ongoing commitment by SugarHouse in their neighbors and community."