A new $280 million to $300 million casino is planned for Grand Forks, North Dakota. The project will be funded by economic funds from the Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa tribe and private bank investments. Tribal leader Jamie Azur said the project is being created in partnership with the local government and will help attract tourists by revitalizing the region’s economy.
SB 2376 is the bill SB 2376 needs to pass for the project to be realized. It would allow the tribe to build casinos outside of its traditional lands. So far, the bill is being debated in the North Dakota Senate, but no vote has been taken yet. Some senators and local officials support the project, believing it will benefit the economy, create 800 jobs, and increase city revenues by tens of millions.
However, there are also opponents. Three hearing participants expressed concerns that the casino could increase the number of people with gambling addictions, mainly because of its proximity to the University of North Dakota.
However, in the conditions of iGaming market development, this statement seems disputable. After all, there is nothing to prevent people from playing or betting on sports over the Internet. The statistics of sports popular with bookmakers show the growth of cricket, golf, and athletics. This does not count for the stable popularity of baseball, soccer, or basketball. The ease of betting influences the popularity as everyone can bet using their smartphone. Everyone can find the IPL betting app here, on the most visited sports-related website. Installation of the application, registration, and account replenishment takes a few minutes. And such ease of access to gambling entertainment has not worsened the situation of gambling addiction.
The tribe emphasizes that casino revenue will not be distributed directly to its members. Instead, the money will improve infrastructure, health care, education, and social programs. For example, the tribe plans to buy ambulances, build sports facilities, and support schools.
The Grand Forks City Council has favored the project and agreed to the tribe’s annual payments to the city budget instead of standard taxes. Those payments could range from $855,000 to $1 million a year.
The casino is projected to attract as many as 900,000 guests a year, half of whom come from outside the region. This will substantially boost the business, hospitality, and service sectors.
The project is being hotly debated, and while there is disagreement, most believe it could bring significant economic benefits to the entire region. Now, the fate of the casino is up to the North Dakota Senate to decide.