Westfield is the latest community to enter the sweepstakes for a casino in western Massachusetts.

Mayor Daniel Knapik says Penn National Gaming is negotiating with the owner of a 280-acre plot of land near the Massachusetts Turnpike.

City Advancement Officer Jeffrey Daley tells The Westfield News the property is owned by Needham-based Equity Industrial Partners.

Knapik says if a deal is struck for the land, a city-wide referendum will be held to give voters a chance to weigh in.

Pennsylvania-based Penn National could invest $500 million to $750 million in the city with a casino.

Knapik says a casino could greatly reduce property taxes and attract retailers, hotels, a movie theater and more.

Springfield, Holyoke and Palmer are other possible sites for a casino in western Massachusetts. (AP)