Senior Civil Judge Jeffrey T. Webb of the tribal court of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians recently ruled that tribal members must be allowed to vote on its fourth gambling facility, the Red Water Casino in Leake County, Mississippi. The grassroots group, Chahta for Better Government, sought the ruling after their petition for a vote was rejected by the tribe’s election committee.
The group announced the ruling on its Facebook page. “Judge Webb ordered in our favor! In his written opinion, he called for an election to be held for the Choctaw people to vote on the Red Water casino! Our second victory! What a great day for the Choctaw people!”
However, Chief Phyliss Anderson commented, “I will move forward to do everything I can to make sure we do build Red Water Casino.”
She said the $25 million, 35,800 square foot facility “is a wonderful opportunity for our tribe.” She added the casino would create 250 jobs, generate more revenue and reduce the tribe’s existing debt. “We hope to have it paid in 18 months,” Anderson said, noting projected revenue is nearly $50 million a year with an annual profit of $20 million.
Anderson and the tribal election commission could appeal Webb’s ruling. If they don’t, an election will be scheduled.
The Choctaw tribe owns the Silver Star Hotel & Casino and the Golden Moon Casino at the Pearl River Resort in Philadelphia, the Bok Homa Casino in Sandersville.
