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Read Full BioLawmakers in Indiana have introduced a bill that could lead to the opening of a new casino in Fort Wayne, Allen County. The bill would require the Indiana Gaming Commission to accept applications and proposals from operators for a license.
Rep. Craig Snow introduced House Bill 1038 on Monday, which proposes a minimum $50 million license fee for an Allen County casino. Fort Wayne has been proposed as the location for the casino, which could serve as the venue for the relocation of the struggling Rising Star Casino in Ohio County.
Allen County Casino Divides Opinion
Some lawmakers have shown support for an Allen County casino. Rep. Kyle Miller is advocating for a commercial casino in Fort Wayne ahead of a tribal casino that would not contribute the same amount of tax revenue to the state.
Miller voiced his opinions last month at a Greater Fort Wayne meeting, where the organization put “the authorization and development of a resort-style casino in Allen County” as one of its key policy positions for the upcoming year.
Gov. Mike Braun has also said Fort Wayne could be an “ideal spot” for a casino, although he added that Indianapolis, Lake County, and Hamilton County could be possible locations for the Rising Star move.
Sen. Tyler Johnson, however, has stated that he is opposed to a casino in his district, which encompasses much of eastern Allen and DeKalb counties. Johnson said putting a casino in Allen County “ignores risks to families, schools, and public safety.”
‘Fort Wayne First’ Campaign
Greater Fort Wayne, a group focused on driving economic prosperity for the region, has also advocated for a resort-style casino. The group launched a campaign, Fort Wayne First, claiming a casino would bring good-paying jobs, partnerships with small businesses, increased tax revenue, and attract tourism.
Spectrum Gaming Group compiled a report on the potential relocation of the Rising Star Casino, stating that moving the venue to Fort Wayne could increase annual revenue from $41 million to $204 million. This would in turn generate an additional $61.1 million in tax revenue for the state.
Jen Atienzo-Fisher, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Greater Fort Wayne, cited the report as proof Fort Wayne is an ideal location for a casino. She stated, “We believe Allen County is a prime location for a casino, based on the recent study by Spectrum Gaming Group, which identified Northeast Indiana as a strong potential site.
“We stand with the many local business and community leaders who recognize the significant economic impact this opportunity presents. A state-regulated casino would create jobs, attract new visitors, and generate substantial revenue that can strengthen services and improve quality of life throughout our community.”
Rival Group Opposes Plan
The Coalition for a Better Allen County has opposed the campaign, raising concerns about its potential community impact and the risk of gaming addiction. Speaking on behalf of the group, Cathie Humbarger said the area doesn’t need a casino, pointing to Fort Wayne’s positive growth over the years without one.
Fort Wayne rejected plans to build a casino in the city in 2009, and Humbarger said the area has been thriving since then. She added, “We certainly don’t want to bring in a corrupt organization and depend on them for economic development. Additionally, we do have a responsibility for those who have a tendency or a predilection to gaming addiction.”
Lawmakers will now debate the new bill in the House. It has been referred to the Committee on Public Policy.
