Wayne County Invests $30,000 in Lobbying for a new Indiana Casino
Economic leaders in Wayne County, Indiana, are investing $30,000 in lobbyists to press state lawmakers to include the county in deliberations over new or relocated casino licenses.
Key Takeaways:
- Wayne County is investing $30,000 on lobbyists to include itself in casino licensing discussions
- The effort seeks voter approval for a potential local casino amidst competing legislative proposals
- Local officials highlight economic needs, tying casino prospects to job creation and revenue growth
County Invests in Influence to Secure a Seat at the Table
The county’s Economic Development Corporation has retained RJL Solutions to pursue a local ballot referendum route that would let voters authorize a license if lawmakers approve enabling legislation.
Spectrum Gaming, in a report to the Indiana Gaming Commission, found Indianapolis and Fort Wayne present the largest revenue potential, but it described Wayne County as an area “where unmet potential is high” — language the EDC is using to bolster its pitch.
Legislative Race Intensifies around Indiana Casino Licenses
The lobbying push comes amid competing proposals in the Indiana Legislature to either create a 14th license for Allen County or permit an existing licensee to relocate to Fort Wayne or nearby Allen County.
Several bills would require significant license or relocation fees and, in one version cleared by an Indiana Senate committee, large non-gaming investments as part of relocation terms, per Yogonet.com.
The proposals have attracted interest from Full House Resorts and prompted public debate about economic benefits versus social impacts, with local officials framing potential casinos as job creators and new revenue sources.
Wayne County officials emphasize local economic need, as the county’s 66,000 residents have median household income and poverty metrics below state averages. Benefits such as extra jobs and gaming tax were emphasized in an EDC meeting late last year.
