MADISON – Not long ago Kenosha expected to be approved to get an $800 million casino, but instead, Governor Scott Walker decided to delay the decision in order to further review data before moving to approve the casino.
Now news reports are circulating that it could be another year before any decision is announced regarding a planned casino in Kenosha. An aide for Governor Scott Walker said a decision from the Governor’s desk might not come until after the election in November 2014.
Administration Secretary Mike Huebsch told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that it’s likely any plans would have to be reviewed by state attorneys and a financial advisor. He added that the administration is open to modifying or even removing the veto power of opposing tribes.
Governor Walker has met with the Menominee Nation and opposing tribes. There was a lot of dialogue – but no deal.
The Oneida, Ho-Chunk, and Potawatomi have raised concerns about the Menominee’s plan to build an $800 million casino in Kenosha. Governor Walker wants all 11 tribes to agree to the Kenosha plan before he signs off on the project.
“We got to hear from the other tribes and we look forward to getting to the finishing line and getting them to sign off,” said Menominee Chairman Craig Corn.
Ho-Chunk President Jon Greendeer disagreed with Corn.
“Nothing has changed, nothing will change,” he said. “We are firm in our position.” Menominee’s chairman says he’s not giving up.