Coast Coliseum put on notice for possible lawsuit by casino

Wednesday, April 26, 2000 | 1:14 a.m.

Bob Byrd, attorney for the commission that oversees the Coliseum, said that a "notice of claim" was served on Coliseum Director Bill Holmes on Monday.

The claim alleges Black Springbreak, held April 6-9, caused the casino damages, but it does not list a dollar amount.

Treasure Bay President Bernie Burkholder has said the casino lost more than $220,000 in business because of Black Springbreak. Other Coast casinos also have complained of losses.

Treasure Bay spokesperson Barbara Shattles said that Mississippi law requires a government agency receive a 90-day notice if a claim may be filed against it.

"We are thinking about filing a claim," she said.

Other businesses in the community may join in a lawsuit.

Holmes and the Coliseum have taken the brunt of the blame for the problems caused by the Black Springbreak 2000.

Concerts and cultural events planned for the Coliseum were intended to be the focal point of Black Springbreak.

But rather than attend scheduled events, the majority of revelers cruised U.S. 90 and congregated in a mall parking lot.

Other visitors and residents complained of lewd behavior and intense gridlock.

Byrd would not comment on the Treasure Bay complaint, but noted that federal law prohibits the Coliseum from denying use of public facility to any person or group.