Franklin County, IA- A proposed casino is on the move.
The developers of a project for Franklin County are announcing a new site. Five years ago they planned to build near the intersection of I-35 and Highway 3 near Latimer. The state gaming commission turned down their application.
The developers acquired the rights to a new piece of land just six miles to the south near Dows.
The Iowa gaming commission approved new licenses for several counties in 2004. Back then there were different requirements for casinos. For instance they had to be on water.
Gayle Burnett and her husband are the ones taking a gamble on the project in Franklin County.
"What worked for that site is not the same that will work for this site so it's definitely gonna be still the same upscale property that we had designed before," she said.
Burnett is hoping Franklin County can get a little lucky in two weeks. She's hoping the project she and her husband worked hard to develop will become a reality.
"When we lived in the southwest you know we spent a number of visits to Las Vegas and so fourth, know a number of people out there yet and it's just something that has really interested him," she said.
This month the State Gaming Commission announced the results of a gaming study. Five other counties vying to be the home of Iowa’s next casino are hoping the commission allows new licenses at its next meeting.
"Everybody's at the gate ready to run," she said.
Burnett says the Franklin County area may be more ready than ever.
"Possibly because of the worth county situation, I think people are more inclined to talk to commissioners talk to people, try and get the support from the entire area."
Economic leaders in Franklin County are also ready for the boost.
"The opportunity to get revenue that's not available any other way, why wouldn't you want to try to go after that," said Franklin County Development Association Executive Director Karen Mitchell.
When asked about having too many casinos in one area with Diamond Jo just 55 miles to the north in Worth County.
Burnett says studies show more gaming area's can only help.
"It's a stimulus, and it can stimulate growth for both entities."
Burnett says Franklin County would still provide the same funding for area schools.
She says both NIACC and the community college in Iowa Falls would get $250,000 annually from casino revenue.
The state gaming commission is expected to decide on new gaming licenses on July 16th.
