While the calendar says it’s September, doesn’t it feel like Feb. 2? You know, Groundhog Day, when a rodent forecasts our weather and it seems that every day repeats itself.
Just think about it. The administration of Gov. Gina M. Raimondo negotiates a deal to keep a valuable asset in the state. The General Assembly, more specifically House Speaker Nicholas A. Mattiello, does not like the deal.
After much scrambling, the asset bolts, leaving Rhode Island with another example why so many companies have chosen not to invest here, and increasing the likelihood that the only way to attract them is to use economic incentives.
Of course, we are talking about the Pawtucket Red Sox. Or are we?
The latest hash is the dustup over the deal that Gov. Raimondo signed to keep International Game Technology PLC in the state with its promise of increasing the number of jobs based here.
The deal was negotiated without input from state legislators and has casino operator Twin River Worldwide Holdings Inc. publicly unhappy, so much so that it has made a similar offer.
Both companies are becoming larger and larger players in the gaming world, and maybe it’s just the first salvo in what might be a national contest for economic strength. Or maybe it’s just a local power struggle.
Perhaps the state should take a little deeper look into the IGT contract, with the percentage of its machines being used on the casino floors up for negotiation, while maintaining the company’s commitment to jobs here in Rhode Island.
Either that or wave goodbye to another Rhode Island-bred asset.