Artist's rendering of the proposed Menominee Nation off-reservation casino. Image from Casino Kenosha
The Menominee Nation off-reservation casino was discussed at a Wisconsin gubernatorial debate on Friday. Gov. Scott Walker (R), who is running for re-election, has delayed a decision on the $810 million casino in Kenosha. But he blamed his predecessor, who happens to be a Democrat, for his inaction. "I want more jobs in Kenosha and southeast Wisconsin, but the biggest thing holding us back right now is really two words: Jim Doyle," Walker said at the debate, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Former governor Jim Doyle negotiated a Class III compact with the Forest County Potawatomi Community that requires the state to enter into arbitration in the event of a rival facility within 50 miles of the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee. The Menominee site in Kenosha only 40 miles away and the state and the tribe remain in talks. Democrat Mary Burke criticized Walker for delaying the decision. But she did not outright say she would approve if if she wins the election. "We are in competition with other states like Iowa and Illinois, not only for gaming but for entertainment," Burke said, the Journal Sentinel reported. "I will not kick the can down the road as Governor Walker has done." Walker has said he won't make a decision until February 2015, assuming he wins the race. Get the Story:
Scott Walker, Mary Burke weigh in on jobs, proposed casino and arena (The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 10/18)
Walker and Burke Talk about Milwaukee Problems, Solutions (WUWM 10/17) Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
Press Release | Fact Sheet: Menominee Nation Decision | Section 20 Determination: Menominee Nation Off-Reservation Casino
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Forest County
Potawatomi Tribe questions rival casino partner (09/24) Forest County Potawatomi Tribe won't share casino revenue (9/22)
Opinion: Menominee Nation off-reservation casino a win for state (09/10)
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