Eastern Shawnee Tribe's Ohio casino bid debated

Friday, March 24, 2006  

The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is eyeing several sites in Ohio for potential casinos.

The tribe signed an intergovernmental deal with the city of Lorain last March. But the deal expired because gaming hasn't been legalized by the state, according to The Massillon Independent.

Mayor Craig Foltin still hopes the city can work with the tribe. But other city officials have questions about the tribe's reported business partner and the tribe's sovereignty.

In Lordstown, the tribe's casino deal received approval by the city council and by voters. Residents there are excited about the possibility of gaming in a city that has suffered job cuts.

In Lima, the tribe is asking the city to sign an agreement by the end of the month. But some residents say they don't want gaming in their backyard, citing social and moral issues.

Get the Story:
Lorain backed out of deal with tribe (The Massillon Independent 3/24)
In Lordstown, casino dream is alive (The Massillon Independent 3/24)
Casinos see first opposition, Shawnee tribe land option deadline March 31 (The Lima News 3/24)