SPRINGFIELD — Citizens Against Casino Gaming challenged Mayor Domenic J. Sarno this week to personally take part in three casino debates, but Sarno said the group should "take that up with MGM officials."

Dr. Mark Mullan, a representative of the anti-casino group, in an emailed challenge dated Wednesday, made a “formal demand” for three debates before a July 16 citywide vote on a proposed casino project in Springfield planned by MGM Resorts International.

“We are proposing public forum debates between you, not a surrogate, and a representative of our group on the following dates: June 10, 2013; June 27, 2013; and July 10, 2013,” Mullan said.

Sarno, in a prepared response, said his administration has been providing all information to the public and will continue that practice “so they can make an educated decision on the facts.”

“People know where I stand on this issue,” Sarno said. “As always, my administration will continue to participate in discussion panels and forums. As for the request (for three debates), the Citizens Against Casino Gaming needs to take that up with MGM officials.”

MGM is proposing an $800 million casino project in the South End, and a host community agreement with the company has been approved by the mayor and City Council.

The agreement needs approval from voters, and if approved, will be considered for approval by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. The commission will consider one casino license in Western Massachusetts, with competing projects proposed in Palmer and West Springfield.

Mullan, on behalf of the anti-casino group, said Sarno has “rushed through” a ballot question on the casino proposal for July 16, rather than wait for a fall referendum.

“In light of your unyielding pressure, both on city officials, elected leaders and the business community, our group believes and demands that you owe the residents and ultimately the voters, your immediate commitment to a minimum of three (3) public debates,” Mullan wrote.

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