Editorial: 2003 vote against First Nations casino changed city

The Whitecap Dakota First Nation and Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Association have every reason to be proud of the success they have brought to the Dakota Dunes Casino.

Dealt a hard hand after Saskatoon voters turned down the chance to establish the casino in the heart of what has become one of Canada's fastest-growing cities, and next to a renowned arts and convention centre, the proponents picked up the pieces, building a beautiful facility on the First Nation south of Saskatoon, marrying it to a hotel and golf-course resort that is among the most remarkable in the country.

And it is impossible to make an accurate estimate of what could have been, had the vote gone the other way. There is no question that Saskatoon's economy and its downtown weathered the loss. Saskatoon has one of the most robust economies in the country and its downtown is now a hub of activity.

Ten years ago, however, things looked very different.