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Public packs Choctaw casino meeting

OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi – As reported by the Mississippi Press: "More than 400 people packed the Ocean Springs civic center Wednesday for a public meeting intended to determine the environmental impact of a $375 million casino resort proposed by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

"But few attendees wanted to talk about the environment.

"Audience members who gave their opinions about the Choctaws' proposal -- the overwhelming majority of them against it -- included Harrison County business and casino executives, local pastors and church members, and residents who just don't want a casino in their backyard.

"…John McFadden with Compton Engineering was one of about three residents who warned of the environmental dangers of the proposed casino resort.

"…Group members say it's not fair for the Choctaws not to pay the same 12 percent state taxes on generated revenues that non-Indian casinos have to pay.

"Federal law does not require the Choctaws to pay such taxes, but the tribe does pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for infrastructure improvements in Neshoba County, where they own two casinos.

"…About a half dozen residents said they liked the Choctaws' proposal…"

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