The Bureau of Indian Affairs recently published a Notice of Availability of a Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Ho-Chunk Nation’s proposed casino in Beloit. The FEIS publication starts a 30-day public comment period leading up to the BIA’s recording of decision. Governor Tony Evers’ approval of the project would be the final step in the process.
The proposed $400 million casino resort would offer 2,200 slot machines and 50 gaming tables, 300-room hotel, dining outlets, convention center and 40,000 square foot water park. Developers said the project would create 1,500 new jobs and generate more than $225 million in economic impact to Rock County. In addition, the host county and city each would receive $3 million annually in casino revenue.
Ho-Chunk Nation President Wilfrid Cleveland added the tribe would be “pleased to see the impact that the Ho-Chunk Nation can have on the unemployment in the Beloit area and beyond.”
City Manager Lori Curtis Luther said, “The hard-working families of Beloit deserve the livable wages and quality benefits this development will bring to our community. The game-changing project significantly and positively impacts the city’s ability to provide high quality services for all residents and taxpayers.”
Luther added, “It is feasible although uncertain that we could receive final approval this summer.” If that occurs, the Ho-Chunk Nation could break ground on the property in late 2019 or early 2020 and open it in 2021.
