Casino question on Nov.7 ballot

Saturday, Sept. 16, 2000 | 10:01 a.m.

With the vote on whether to continue talks with the Bad River and St. Croix nations, Beloit becomes the latest in a string of communities to hold a casino referendum this fall.

Voters on Tuesday approved casino talks in the city of Kaukauna but turned down a proposal in the Village of Plover. Both casino projects were proposed by the Lac du Flambeau band of Chippewa.

Beloit residents on both sides of the issue filled a joint band office Friday to hear details of the plan, which also calls for a water park, auto museum, 110,000 square foot outlet mall and several restaurants.

"They are promising full-time jobs and benefits," casino supporter Benita Hopson said.

But Connie Kanitz remained staunchly opposed after hearing developers' plans.

"The market is already saturated. We will not be pulling people off of the interstate. We will be preying on our own citizens and businesses," Kanitz said.

Project designers mapped out a plan for the 75-acre site west of I-90, detailing a casino in the center of the development to represent the area's heart, man-made lakes and a 12-story hotel.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and Gov. Tommy Thompson also must approve any casino project in the state.