OGEMA, Minn. (KFGO KVRR) – White Earth Nation is moving ahead with bringing a casino to Moorhead.
The tribe has released the results of its economic and social impact study. The tribe says the cost to construct the casino along I-94 and State Highway 336 is estimated at $176.8 million.
The project would employ nearly 400 construction workers to complete the casino with 950 gaming machines and 10 tables, a 200-room hotel, ballroom, dining options and parking lot. When it is operational, the tribe expects to have 600 full-time employees and 100 part-time workers. The study also estimates over 1.1 million visitors annually. Annual operating tax revenue is estimated at over $25 million for county, state and federal.
The tribe also projects a $1.4 million increase for public safety and other government services and marginal long-term social costs.
The tribe says the casino would deliver substantial economic benefits to Clay County and Minnesota.
The project still faces several hurdles including getting federal approval to move the land into a tribal trust and a gaming compact with the state.
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