A report prepared by the Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Division of Gaming for the gubernatorial transition indicated the Ho-Chunk Nation is allowed to open another Class III casino. Last year, Ho-Chunk officials said they hoped to start construction on the $400 million casino resort in 2020 and open in 2021.
The report was written for Governor Tony Edwards by the administration of outgoing Governor Scott Walker. It reads, “The compact with the Ho-Chunk provides for one more class III casino (as defined by the Indian Regulatory Act) for the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin. The Ho-Chunk have submitted an application for the transfer of land in Beloit, Wisconsin into trust with the Federal Government as required by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act).”
Division of Gaming officials noted the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs’ intention to publish a draft environmental impact statement on November 9 does not mean approval for a new casino in Beloit will happen anytime soon. The report said, “The Division of Gaming takes this action to mean the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Department of the Interior are at best, one to two years away from a decision and it wouldn’t be much of a reach to say this is four years from approval.” A final EIS and notice published in the federal register are required before the BIA and Evers approve the project.
Previously, Evers said he would approve the project following federal approval. His Deputy Communications Director Britt Cudaback said, “Yes, the governor has said in the past that he’s inclined to support the agreement but he will be carefully reviewing the application and listening to all sides of the issue to ensure fair consideration.”
The city of Beloit and tribal officials have expressed full commitment to the project, which would include said the project would include a casino, hotel, water park, conference center and retail development.
