A controversial proposal to relocate a casino license from southeastern Indiana to New Haven faced strong opposition Wednesday, leading a key Senate committee chair to halt its progress. The decision followed hours of testimony from residents, business leaders, and public officials who were sharply divided over the potential economic and social impact of the move.
Senate Bill 293 sought to transfer a casino license from Rising Sun, a small city along the Ohio River, to New Haven, located near Fort Wayne. The proposal required approval from the Indiana Gaming Commission and a plan to redevelop the soon-to-be-vacant Rising Sun property.
Despite support from several stakeholders, including Rising Sun officials and the casino’s operator, Full House Resorts, the bill failed to advance out of the Senate Public Policy Committee after Chair Sen. Ron Alting, R-Lafayette, declined to bring it to a vote. Alting cited opposition from residents and local leaders, making it clear he had no intention of advancing the measure this year.
Full House Resorts, New Haven, Indiana render
The hearing saw passionate arguments on both sides, with roughly three dozen people testifying. Around 20 opponents voiced concerns about the potential harms of gambling, while about a dozen supporters championed the economic benefits of the move. Additional supporters gathered outside the chamber, advocating for the proposal.
Alex Stolyar, chief development officer for Full House Resorts, defended the relocation, citing a steep decline in revenue at the Rising Sun casino following gambling expansions in neighboring Kentucky and Ohio.
According to Stolyar, Full House’s Indiana operations generated $2.3 million in state tax revenue last year, but moving to New Haven could increase that figure to as much as $65.4 million, primarily by drawing customers from casinos in Michigan and Ohio.
“We do have overwhelming public support. It is not unanimous; I won’t pretend that it is,” Stolyar said, presenting a letter signed by 2,743 community members backing the project. He also assured lawmakers that Full House would not abandon Rising Sun or its employees.
However, opponents, including members of the Coalition for a Better Allen County, warned of gambling addiction and potential threats to the community’s character. Cathie Humbarger, an Allen County resident, questioned the long-term viability of brick-and-mortar casinos, especially as Indiana lawmakers consider legalizing online gaming.
Full House Resorts, New Haven, Indiana render
Some critics also raised concerns about the bill’s sponsorship. Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, authored the proposal despite representing a district located more than 30 miles from New Haven. His involvement led some to question why a local legislator had not introduced the measure. Zay defended his role, citing his rural roots and a longstanding relationship with New Haven Mayor Steve McMichael.
McMichael was among the most vocal supporters of the relocation, explaining that he initially harbored doubts but changed his stance after visiting several Indiana communities with casinos.
“I always asked the following question, ‘If you could make the casino go away, would you?’” McMichael said. “Not a single community said they would make the casino go away if they could.” He highlighted the role casinos played in supporting local economies, adding that they often stepped up in times of crisis.
Supporters also argued that the move could drive investment in New Haven, which they believe lacks sufficient retail and commercial development. Some residents expressed hope that the casino could help attract businesses such as a second grocery store, bringing new job opportunities to the area.
However, opponents countered that the casino industry does not necessarily offer high-paying jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, gambling service workers earned a median hourly wage of $16.53 in May 2023, notably lower than the regional median of $26.37.
While the bill stalled in committee, Zay suggested that changes, including the addition of a public referendum requirement or a competitive bidding process, could be introduced to gain more support. He emphasized that the legislative process was still in its early stages. “There will be a number of other opportunities for this to be amended,” Zay said.
A provision for a referendum vote had been required in previous casino relocations, including moves to Gary and Terre Haute. However, Senate Bill 293 did not include such a requirement, a point of contention among lawmakers and residents alike.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/01/30/93516-indiana-casino-relocation-plan-halted-as-senate-committee-withholds-vote-amidst-fierce-public-debate
