A newly formed group called Save Fort Wayne has joined the discussion surrounding a proposed casino in Fort Wayne or elsewhere in Allen County. The group is comprised of local professionals in the business and finance sphere and launched a website to bolster its fight against Senate Bill 70 and House Bill 1038, both of which would facilitate the opening of a new casino in the city.
Anonymous Group Opposes Fort Wayne Casino Project
The group said that, due to the political nature of the issue and their obligations to current employers, its members chose to remain anonymous to protect their professional careers. It also stated that it aims to keep the public discussion focused on data rather than personalities and identified advocacy for a voter referendum as its primary objective.
It cited polling data suggesting that public opposition increases significantly as residents become more informed about the potential downsides of expanded gambling. The group said a referendum is necessary to ensure organizations such as Save Fort Wayne and the Coalition for a Better Allen County, as well as individual residents, have an opportunity to publicly voice their concerns.
Senate Bill 70 gained much traction earlier this month when the Senate Public Policy Committee unanimously approved it. It would allow relocation of the Ohio County casino license to Fort Wayne, Allen County.
Mayor Sharon Tucker was asked to respond to the Save Fort Wayne website and the claims it raises. When questioned about the possibility of a referendum, the mayor’s office said the mayor has previously stated that she does not oppose public input but is concerned that a referendum could slow the overall process.
Who Supports the New Casino Project?
Speaking of the mayor, she and all three members of the Allen County Board of Commissioners sent a letter to state legislators voicing their support for a casino in Allen County. The letter states that 60% of the tax revenue generated by a new casino would be allocated to communities throughout the county based on population. Meanwhile, the remaining 40% would be directed into a nonprofit fund aimed at addressing mental health, homelessness, addiction, and related issues. It also notes that an appointed board would be responsible for overseeing the distribution of those funds.
Save Fort Wayne’s new website is likely a response to the online page Fort Wayne First, made by Greater Fort Wayne Inc., the chamber of commerce representing Fort Wayne and Allen County. It was launched in November and claims that a casino in Allen County would bring benefits beyond gaming. These include new jobs, partnerships with small businesses, increased tax revenue for neighborhood improvements, public safety, and parks, as well as growth in tourism and hospitality.
It also argues that if a casino were located elsewhere, those economic benefits would be lost to another community. The site notes that while multiple communities are competing for the opportunity, Fort Wayne is presented as uniquely positioned to retain economic growth, community investment, and new jobs within the area.