The debate over the Fort Wayne casino is heating up (once again) as the community weighs it as an economic boon or a potential risk.
On one side, local business leaders see the potential for economic growth. One study predicted it could generate as much as $80 million annually.
On the other, community members worry about the social effects a casino could bring. Both sides present strong arguments, and the decision could shape the future of the Fort Wayne area.
The Battle Over The Fort Wayne Casino
The "Fort Wayne First" campaign, supported by Greater Fort Wayne Inc., is leading the efforts to bring a casino to the area.
They argue that a casino would create jobs, attract tourists, and increase tax revenues that could help fund local services. They point to a study by the Spectrum Gaming Group that suggests northeast Indiana would be a great market for a casino.
Supporters believe a local casino would keep money in the area that is currently being spent at casinos outside of Indiana.
However, not everyone is convinced.
The Coalition for a Better Allen County, with figures like Cathie Humbarger at the forefront, is raising concerns. They claim that the introduction of a casino could lead to increased gambling addiction, hurt families, and change the community's character. They believe Allen County is already thriving without a casino and question whether it would truly benefit the local economy or merely serve as a revenue stream for the state and casino operators.
Rising Sun Casino Idea Shut Down Earlier This Year
Earlier this year, there was an attempt to move a casino license from Rising Sun to a site near New Haven.
The casino is officially named Rising Star Casino Resort and is located in Rising Sun, Indiana, on the Ohio River. It is a riverboat casino and resort, owned and operated by Full House Resorts, and is sometimes referred to colloquially as "Rising Sun Casino" because of its location in the town of Rising Sun.
Senate Bill 293 would have moved The Rising Star casino license from Rising Sun (on the Ohio River) to New Haven, near Fort Wayne, about 160 miles north.
The relocation would only have occurred if operators met conditions like getting approval from the Indiana Gaming Commission and creating redevelopment plans for the now-vacant site in Ohio County.
This proposal faced strong opposition from local lawmakers and residents, leading to its ultimate failure.
State legislators like Senators Liz Brown and Tyler Johnson, along with Representative Dave Heine, argued that the casino could have negative economic impacts and affect community well-being. A significant grassroots movement also opposed the plan, claiming that traditional casinos are outdated in the age of online gaming and could lead to an increase in low-wage jobs and addiction issues.
The proposal was ended when Senator Ron Alting, chair of the Senate Public Policy Committee, decided not to allow a vote on the bill, effectively stopping it for the year.
During testimony at the statehouse, a speaker emphasized that brick-and-mortar casinos are seen as outdated, especially since Indiana may legalize online casinos sooner than later.
The Arguments For and Against a Fort Wayne Casino
Those in favor of the casino emphasize economic benefits.
They believe it would create jobs and bring in tourists, which would boost local businesses. The tax revenue from the casino could also be used to improve public services and community projects.
Opponents, however, focus on potential social issues. They argue that the community's growth should not rely on gambling, which could lead to addiction and other problems. They see casinos as businesses that benefit the state and operators more than the local community.
What Happens Next?
As the debate continues, the community remains divided.
Key questions for the future include whether the casino proposal will be reintroduced and how the "Fort Wayne First" campaign will resonate with voters. The decision will likely hinge on whether the community prioritizes economic development or is more concerned about the social impacts.
The coming months will be crucial as Allen County decides its path forward. The outcome will not only affect the economy but also the very fabric of the community.
