Chief claims zoning laws won't affect casino plans

PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- As reported by the Mississippi Press: "A proposed Choctaw casino would be outside the control of Jackson County zoning ordinances, wrote Mico Beasley Denson in a Monday letter to the Jackson County Board of Supervisors.

"Denson restated the Choctaw's pledge to pay four percent of casino revenues to local governments in Jackson County as an impact fee. The letter also states the tribe has purchased 61 acres in the area in addition to its current land holdings of 40 acres.

"Denson used the letter to thank supervisors for meeting with him Sept. 27, and to clarify the Choctaw's position on several items relating to the casino.

"...While the proposed casino would fall within the zoning uses of the land, a hotel tower proposed as part of the $375 million project would not. The tower, which would contain about 1,100 rooms, would be about 20 stories high.

"Jackson County zoning regulations limit buildings to 50 feet in height.

"Despite the letter's assertion of tribal sovereignty over local zoning laws, Supervisor John McKay said he felt the tribe would have to work with the county on the height of the project.

"...However, Tim Broussard, president of the Board of Supervisors, said the assertion that the Choctaws will not be bound by county zoning ordinances does not surprise him..."