A conceptual design of the proposed Ho-Chunk Nation off-reservation in Beloit, Wisconsin. Image from Good for Beloit
The Ho-Chunk Nation believes its off-reservation casino stands a better chance because its Class III gaming compact with the state of Wisconsin authorizes another facility. The tribe operates three Class III gaming facilities and wants to open a fourth casino in Beloit. The location doesn't appear to conflict with any other operations, which was one of the hurdles facing the Menominee Nation, whose $800 million casino in Kenosha was rejected by Gov. Scott Walker (R) last week. "Really the only detail that the Governor has to agree to is the location," Ho-Chunk President Jon Greendeer told WKOW. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is preparing an environmental impact statement for the casino. However, a draft hasn't been issued even though a notice was put out more than two years ago. Walker started his second, four-year term in January. Although the BIA appears to be moving slowly on the project, it's possible that it could be on his desk before his leaves office. The tribe is pursuing the casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The law gives the state governor final say. Get the Story:
Ho-Chunk leaders hope Beloit casino approval is now on fast track (WKOW 1/26)
Beloit Pushes for New Casino (WREX 1/27) An Opinion:
Editorial: Kenosha, no; up next, Beloit (The Beloit Daily News 1/27) Federal Register Notice:
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Ho-Chunk Nation Beloit Casino Project, City of Beloit, Rock County, WI (November 26, 2012)
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