In a landmark decision, the Arkansas Racing Commission has granted the Pope County casino permit to Cherokee Nation Entertainment, marking a new chapter in the state’s gaming industry. The commission’s ruling follows months of deliberation and controversy surrounding the selection process for the coveted permit, which will allow the Cherokee Nation to operate a casino in Russellville.
The decision was met with both excitement and disappointment from various stakeholders, as the Cherokee Nation beat out several other contenders for the permit. The tribe’s proposal for a $225 million casino resort, featuring a hotel, restaurants, and entertainment venues, was seen as the most compelling by the commission.
“We are thrilled to have been chosen to bring our world-class gaming and entertainment experience to Pope County,” said Shawn Slaton, CEO of Cherokee Nation Businesses. “We are committed to working with the local community to create a destination that will attract visitors from near and far, boosting the local economy and creating jobs.”
The permit issuance comes after months of legal battles and public outcry over the selection process, with several lawsuits filed by other casino operators who felt they had been unfairly excluded. The commission’s decision was ultimately upheld by the state Supreme Court, which ruled that the Cherokee Nation’s proposal was in compliance with state laws governing casino permits.
Local residents and officials have expressed mixed feelings about the casino permit, with some welcoming the economic benefits it will bring to the region, while others are concerned about the potential social and environmental impacts of a large-scale casino development. The Cherokee Nation has pledged to work closely with local stakeholders to address these concerns and ensure that the project benefits the community as a whole.
“We understand that there are valid concerns about the impacts of a casino on our community, and we are committed to being good neighbors and addressing those concerns,” said Slaton. “We will work closely with local leaders and residents to ensure that our development meets the highest standards of responsible gaming and environmental stewardship.”
Construction on the new casino resort is expected to begin in the coming months, with an estimated opening date of late 2023. The project is projected to create hundreds of jobs in construction and hospitality, as well as bring millions of dollars in revenue to the local economy.
Overall, the issuance of the Pope County casino permit to Cherokee Nation Entertainment represents a significant milestone for the Arkansas gaming industry, paving the way for a new era of development and growth in the region. As the project moves forward, all eyes will be on the Cherokee Nation and local officials to ensure that the casino’s development is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.