MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – The Menominee Indian tribe signed an amended gaming agreement with the state Tuesday night, calling it a “clear path” for Governor Scott Walker to approve its new Kenosha casino.
The 25-year deal would give the state 7.5 percent of the tribe’s net winnings from gamblers. The tribe says its total payment would be an unprecedented $1 billion over the life of the compact.
The Menominee also promised to cover reductions in profits to the Potawatomi and Ho-Chunk casinos as the result of the new Hard Rock Casino and resort. If the annual state payments from those two tribes falls below $37.5 million, the Menominee would make up the difference.
Menominee chair Laurie Boivin says her tribe’s total payments would more than cover lower payments from the other tribes. She says it’s time for Governor Walker to approve the project and, in her words, “reap the benefits of a billion dollar revenue share for the state budget.”
However, state Administration Secretary Mike Huebsch says it’s not that easy. He notes the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs must still approve the new compact. If it doesn’t, or if a court strikes it down, Huebsch says the state could be on the hook for losses from the Potawatomi — both present and past losses if a court rules that way.
Menominee gaming authority chairman Gary Besaw calls that scenario unrealistic.
Walker has until February 19th to decide on the Kenosha casino.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)
