Firms announce $240 million bid for Orange County casino

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 | 9:30 a.m.

FRENCH LICK, Ind. -- A medical device maker and a real estate developer said Monday they will seek the license to operate a casino in southern Indiana's Orange County as part of a $240 million plan to turn the area into a destination resort.

The Cook Group Inc. and Lauth Property Group Inc. said they would hold a public meeting today at the French Lick Springs Resort and Spa to discuss their plans, which include full restoration of the historic hotel at French Lick and another at nearby West Baden.

The proposed casino would direct half of its profit to charitable and philanthropic purposes within the state, the companies said.

The Indiana Gaming Commission reopened the bid process for the casino contract in an effort to replace Trump Hotels and Casino Resorts, which was awarded the contract last year but dropped its plans last month after filing bankruptcy.

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