The Bureau of Indian Affairs held a public hearing on the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians land-into-trust application.

The tribe submitted an application for a 164-acre site near South Bend, Indiana. Although the primary purpose will be housing, plans include a "Class III gaming facility with a hotel, restaurants, meeting space, and a parking garage, according to a Federal Register notice published last month.

Residents debated the pros and cons of a casino at the hearing, according to news reports. Some welcomed the prospect of jobs while others worried about crime and social problems.

The tribe gained federal recognition through an act of Congress in 1994. The Pokagon Restoration Act contains a section that states the federal government "shall" place land in trust for the tribe.

Get the Story:
Dozens debate possible South Bend casino during hearing (WSBT-TV 9/28)
Residents weigh in on proposed Pokagon casino (WNDU-TV 9/27)
South Bend residents voice concerns over possible casino (Fox 28 9/27)
Public comment wanted on possible tribal village and casino in South Bend (Fox 28 9/27)

Related Stories:
Pokagon Band includes casino in land-into-trust plan in Indiana (08/29)