As parimutuels add Vegas-style slots, Florida tribe's new chairman could usher in new era of Class III gaming at the nation's Miami casino.

The Miccosukee Tribe of Florida has installed Colley Billie as its new chairman. The poker director at the tribe's west Miami-Dade casino, Billie edged out longtime chairman Billy Cypress by campaigning on an economic development platform last November.

Billie takes the helm as the tribe's gaming interests face increased competition from parimutuels. According to the Miami Herald, Flagler Dog Track opened a slots casino several months ago, and Calder Race Course is about to unveil its own slots parlor. Both parimutuels offer the more-popular Vegas-style slots, while the Miccosukees still have Class II electronic bingo.

For the Miccosukees to advance to Vegas-style slots, the tribe would have to negotiate a revenue-sharing deal with the state, as the Seminole tribe is trying to do at the moment.

Florida Governor Charlie Crist, who based his support of the Seminoles on the prospect of millions for education, said he is receptive to Class III gaming at the Miccosukee casino for the same reason.

"Certainly we're open to doing anything we can to help the children of Florida get the very best education they deserve," Crist said.

By Staff