Fate of Choctaw Casino in the Hands of Voters

The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians is set on building a tribal casino in Mississippi near Interstate 10 in Jackson County.  Desires, however, are not definite plans for the future.  Many obstacles still stand in the way of the tribe’s proposal.  U.S. Representative Gene Taylor (D) believes the decision should be left in the hands of the voters. 

The Choctaw’s own a plot of land near Mississippi Highway 57 and Interstate 10 that expands nearly 100 acres.  The tribe already owns two casinos, both operating in Neshoba County. 

Choctaw Chief Phillip Martin sent a letter to Jackson County supervisors, requesting a 2008 referendum to test the waters for community support for a new casino.  2008 happens to be the same year as the next presidential election.

On Monday, Taylor spoke at a meeting in the Ocean Springs City Hall, amongst 50 or so locals.  “Let the people decide,” he declared at the town hall meeting. “That’s what democracy is all about.”

Chief Martin and the tribe are taking the first step on the “long and arduous” road to establishing another casino.  In order to have the U.S. Department of the Interior declare it tribal lands, the tribe is putting the land into a trust.

The wording of the referendum could affect Jackson County beyond bringing in a new tribal casino.  It could bring in state licensed casinos that would give 12 percent of total gambling revenues local and state governments.  The Choctaws are under no such obligations to pay a 12 percent tax.  The tribe does, however, collect state income tax on winnings greater than $1,200.

The Choctaws must arrange and sign a compact with Governor Haley Barbour over the terms of constructing and operating the casino.

It appears that Governor Barbour is awaiting cues form voters.  Jackson County Supervisor Tim Broussard said of gaming, “From what I understand, the governor has said if the residents don’t support it, he won’t support it.”

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