MPR: Minnesota tribes oppose expansion of non-Indian gaming

Thursday, February 24, 2011  

"Minnesota already has 18 casinos, which are run by several Indian tribes in the state. John McCarthy, executive director of the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association, said he doesn't think there's a market for a high-end casino in Minneapolis.

He cites the weather, the lack of other amenities, and competition from places like Shakopee and Hinckley.

"If they think that the tribal casinos are going to just roll over, they're dead wrong," said McCarthy. They'll market the heck out of this to maintain their share as well. Which is unfortunate, because they'll hurt each other when they do that."

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak said he also preferred the status quo on gambling, but thought a new casino could work.

"If the governor and the Legislature move forward on opening up a new casino location, I think downtown would be a good location," said Rybak. "In part because think it would be very successful, and in part because I think it would have the least impact on existing tribal gaming operations."

Rybak also acknowledged that the plan is a long way off, "and people float ideas all the time.""

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Developer floats casino idea for downtown Minneapolis (Minnesota Public Radio 2/23)