Officials in Jackson County will ask the state Legislature for permission to hold a non-binding referendum on the off-reservation casino sought by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

The tribe asked the county to set a vote in 2008. Chief Phillip Martin said the tribe will respect county resident's wishes.

But questions arose about the legality of the non-binding referendum. After some discussion, the county board of supervisors decided to seek legislation to authorize the vote.

The tribe wants to build a casino in Ocean Springs, more than 200 miles from its reservation. The tribe filed a two-part determination application for 100 acres near a major interstate.

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County to seek vote on Indian gaming (The Biloxi Sun Herald 2/13)
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