Iowa approved a new casino
The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska received the authorities’ permission to install a new casino in Carter Lake, Iowa.
US.- Tourists at the famous Carter Lake in Iowa will have the chance to visit a new casino venue, which will be operated by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska. Authorities approved last week the tribe’s attempt to operate a gaming venue in the region, as confirmed by an official statement released by the National Indian Gaming Commission.
The casino idea was rejected ten years ago, but now it’s near to become a reality. Back then, the Attorneys General for Nebraska and Iowa, along with police and local governments had opposed the proposal of casino development near the Carter Lake. Authorities alleged that they were concerned that the casino could boost crime rate in Omaha.
Operators will invest around US$25-$30 million to build the casino. Ponca Tribal Chairman Larry Wright Jr. celebrated the latest decision because building the casino would give the tribe significant new resources to help its members. “It means expanded economic development and self-sufficiency for our people. Providing jobs– not just gaming related,” Wright told a tribal meeting in a video posted on YouTube.
Wright estimated the decision that blocked development of the casino cost the Ponca tribe tens of millions of dollars. “We can sit-back and look at that and say think ‘what if’. I challenge all of us to day here we go.”
