Foxwoods Hires New CEO

The tribe that owns and operates the Foxwoods Resort Casino has announced a new chief executive officer.

Felix Rappaport joined the casino in southeastern Connecticut in February as the chief operating officer after working at a number of other gaming companies around the country.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler said Tuesday that Rappaport's vision has been the driving force behind a plan to expand with new attractions, nightclubs and restaurants.

Rappaport replaces Scott Butera, who stepped down last month to become commissioner of the Arena Football League. Butera was a key figure in the restructuring of the casino's $2 billion debt following a default in 2009.

Foxwoods and its nearby rival, Mohegan Sun, have been reporting steady declines in slot machine betting and revenue for several years.