Menominee Tribe's Vision
The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin has unveiled plans for a groundbreaking $360-million casino resort project in partnership with the renowned Hard Rock brand. This ambitious venture seeks to establish a 70,000-square-foot casino featuring 1,500 slot machines, 55 live dealer table games, and a dedicated sportsbook. The project holds great promise, not only for the tribe but also for the local community.
Challenges and History
While this project seems promising, it's not the first time the Menominee Tribe has attempted to establish a casino resort. Previous efforts faced resistance, particularly from former Governor Scott Walker, who was staunchly against expanding gambling in the state. Even an $800 million investment couldn't sway his opinion.
Navigating Hurdles
One of the major hurdles involves convincing Kenosha to sell 60 acres of city-owned land to the tribe, thereby expanding its sovereignty. However, acquiring the land alone isn't sufficient to establish tribal sovereignty; federal government approval is also required.
The Role of Governor Tony Evers
The tribe must also secure Class III permission to operate gambling activities in the state, a challenge it couldn't overcome during Walker's tenure. The current governor, Tony Evers, has a somewhat different stance on gambling, but whether he will grant the necessary permissions remains uncertain.
Moving Forward
Joey Awonohopay, chairman of the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority, is optimistic about the project's prospects. He believes it will bring substantial value to the city and the state. The tribe is actively promoting its plans in the hopes of garnering support for this transformative endeavor.
The Menominee Indian Tribe's vision for a Hard Rock Casino Resort represents a significant opportunity for economic growth, but the path ahead is laden with challenges that will require careful navigation and collaboration with various stakeholders.