ANGOLA, IN (WTVB) – The Steuben County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday, to place a binding referendum on the November 3 general election ballot, asking voters whether inland casino gambling should be permitted in the county.
This critical step follows the recent passage of House Bill 1038, which authorized a competitive bidding process for a potential $500 million resort-style casino in Northeast Indiana. Commissioner Rick Shipe said that the move is essential for the county to remain in the running alongside Allen and DeKalb counties, emphasizing that the final decision rests with local residents rather than state officials.
Proponents of the project point to a recent study suggesting a Steuben County casino could generate up to $18 million in annual tax revenue and create roughly 1,000 direct jobs. The County has highlighted it’s strategic location at the “Golden Crucifix”—the intersection of I-69 and the Indiana Toll Road just across the state line from Branch County as a major logistical advantage for attracting out-of-state visitors from Michigan and Ohio.
While some residents have expressed concerns regarding infrastructure and housing for new employees, as well as the fear for increased criminal activity, officials maintain that the referendum process ensures transparency and gives voters a direct voice in the county’s economic future
Comments