Choctaw Tribe Runs Ad

MISSISSIPPI – As reported by the Mississippi Clarion-Ledger: "Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians' proposed casino in Jackson County likely would open no earlier than 2010 - provided there is local support.

"The Choctaws ran an advertisement this week in two Gulf coast newspapers that said 'the tribe would not move the first shovel of dirt to build a resort unless a majority of Jackson County voters - through a 2008 referendum - embrace the proposal.'

"…Gov. Haley Barbour, who must sign an agreement with the Choctaws that would allow them to build and operate a casino, said Friday he believes it's unlikely Jackson County residents would pass a referendum in favor of gaming.

"…The Choctaws' newspaper ad called the opening of a casino before 2010 unlikely and promised a casino resort would strengthen communities and create jobs and that the tribe would pay local governments.

"…Unlike commercial gaming companies, the Choctaws would not have to pay 12 percent of its gross gambling revenues to state and local governments if it locates a casino on tribal land.

"The tribe operates two casino resorts in Neshoba County and owns nearly 100 acres along Mississippi 57, near I-10 in Jackson County…"