Regulation

Ho-Chunk Nation secures approval to offer liquor at gaming facility

Friday, August 12, 2016

General manager Daniel Brown serves the first beer at the Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison in Madison, Wisconsin. Photo courtesy Ho-Chunk Nation

The Ho-Chunk Nation is now serving liquor at its gaming facility in Madison, Wisconsin.

The tribe worked closely with the city of Madison on the license. Alcoholic beverages at the Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison will be served during hours stipulated by the city.

“We are very pleased at the amicable relationship we have built with the city of Madison officials and the overwhelming support we received throughout the entire process,” Daniel Brown, the facility's executive manager, said in a press release on Friday.

Brown had the pleasure of serving the first beer to a customer at the facility. Patrons will be able enjoy beverages at a walk-up bar or though portable carts, when available, on the gaming floor.

“We are in the business of providing a form of entertainment to our guests and this is a value-add for the players’ gaming experience,” Brown said. “This not only enables us to offer another amenity but, assists with our economic development in generating additional revenue to help our communities and fund our tribal government operations and programs.”

The casino was the only tribal gaming facility in the state that wasn't allowed to serve liquor.