Water permits approved for two St. Louis casinos

Friday, Jan. 10, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

Opponents, however, will have an opportunity to present arguments again at a full hearing on the issue in 60 to 90 days.

The Commission on Environmental Quality, which approved the permits Thursday, will vote again after the next hearing. Approval at that time would clear the last serious regulatory hurdle for Circus Circus and Casino World.

"We anticipate it to go very smoothly," said casino attorney Teri Wyly of Gulfport. "I don't know of any environmental issues; I see competitive issues."

Opponents claim the development will destroy wetlands and forest habitat and damage water quality. The Department of Environmental Quality, however, favored the project.

The Circus Circus and Casino World projects were opposed by Diamondhead homeowners, environmentalists and Casino Magic. Opponents are upset because a commissioner who voted to allow the casinos will oversee the hearing.

"We think we're entitled to an impartial tribunal," said Jackson attorney Edwin S. Gault Jr., representing Casino Magic. "We're going to show that these projects will adversely affect the water quality in the St. Louis Bay."