Governor Walker delays decision on proposed Kenosha casino

KENOSHA -- Several members of the media met with Governor Walker in anticipation of his decision on the proposed Kenosha Casino. The governor said he's delaying his decision on the new casino.


The governor says making a quick decision isn't practical, and he wants to give the proposal it's due diligence. The Menominee tribe released a reaction following the delay announcement saying they respect the governor's decision and are grateful for his leadership.


The Forest County Potawatomi continues to oppose the casino, according to a statement Friday.


Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer says his people are against it.


\"I have yet to hear any arguments from any side from anywhere that have given us any indication or reasons why we should deviate from what our constituents have asked of us,\" Greendeer said Friday.


Greendeer hopes the Governor doesn't go back on his word.


\"I believe that in terms of all functional logistics the decision has been made, but has not been announced.\"


Governor Walker says his decision on the casino has big implications. The governor says there is no immediate timeline, but plans to make a decision next week.


During the morning new conference, Governor Walker made clear the Potawatomi and Ho-Chunk both have legitimate financial concerns. Both tribes have yet to consent to the new casino in Kenosha.


The Menominee's main argument centers on previous compacts signed by all tribes.  Those essentially say the other tribes will be compensated for any lost revenue from a new casino.


\"We're giving it full consideration at this point,\" Walker said.  \"It's a rather elaborate legal argument, it's one that we'll take a look at. There's a lot that needs to be verified in that argument. As you can imagine, a lot of statistics for example that are included in their proposal are pretty big and pretty compelling.\"

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