"The Downstream Casino Resort recently released some numbers about its first year of operation that I think you should see. These, of course, are raw numbers. They tell a story, but sometimes it can be difficult to make sense of them or translate their impact to the real world.

What they do tell me is that Joplin, which is normally perceived as being recession-resistant, probably will rebound faster from this economic storm thanks to the economic impact of Downstream. Put another way: Where would we be today if Downstream did not exist?

The answer is that we would be $116 million poorer. Since its opening in July 2008, Downstream Casino Resort has made vendor payments in the region of $78.3 million. The resort, owned by the Quapaw Tribe, also has paid $21.5 million in gross payroll and an additional $11.7 million in employee benefits. Also counted in payroll is $4.9 million in tips to employees.

The resort has more than 1,100 employees. They come from the Four-State Area. That money re-enters the local economy when employees pay their rent and house payments, and buy groceries and gasoline.

Downstream had no trouble finding workers. One attraction for full-time workers was a good package of health benefits that includes vision and dental. The casino is developing plans to offer a health benefits package to its part-time employees."

Get the Story:
Wally Kennedy: Casino boosts business on Range (The Joplin Globe 8/25)