Grand Forks Opinion: Move ahead with Grand Forks casino plan, but be wary of impact on existing operations

The Grand Forks City Council is moving forward with a potential casino proposal from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, nearly two decades after the concept first emerged. With a recent 4-2 vote to enter a non-binding letter of intent, discussions are now in motion. While a casino could bring benefits like jobs and increased tax revenue, concerns persist about its impact on local businesses and existing charitable gaming. As the Grand Forks community navigates this opportunity, key questions around economic effect and community support remain at the forefront, but the Grand Forks Herald has made their opinion clear: cautious support. The Grand Force City Council agreed.

Why does it matter in Minot? In essence, it sets off a gaming war among North Dakota’s larger communities. If one does it, the others will each, at least, consider following suit — if they can wrangle a tribe into making the investment. Next stop: the ND legislature where SB 2376 seeks to change Century Code to make room for the proposed project in law. Details are below.

SB 2376

A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact subsection 5 of section 54-58-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to a tribal-state gaming compact that permits gaming in Grand Forks County.

House Sponsors: Bahl (R, District 17), Davis (D, District 9),

Senate Sponsors: Meyer (R, District 18), Marcellais (D, District 9),

Grand Forks Herald

This article was sourced from:

Herald Editorial Board, Grand Forks Herald

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Josh Wolsky

Developer & Writer @TheMinot Voice, Fan of the Souris River, SavorMinot Advocate. Fortunate to be a 'former' City Council member ;)

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