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Roughly 300 residents packed the War Memorial Coliseum on Jan. 20 for a public hearing on a proposed casino in Allen County, with opposition dominating the discussion.
The Allen County Council organized the forum to gather public input. Council members have no authority over whether a casino is approved — that decision rests with state lawmakers — but officials said recordings of all comments would be forwarded to legislators and local leaders.
“You’re not going to be shut down, you’re not going to be told to sit down and be quiet,” said Councilman Paul Lagemann, a Republican representing District 3. “This proves that the residents of Allen County will get heard.”
Lawmakers weigh relocation vs. new casino
The debate centers on two bills in the Indiana General Assembly.
Senate Bill 70 would allow Full House Resorts to relocate its Rising Star Casino license from southeast Indiana to Allen County or Fort Wayne.
House Bill 1038 would create a new casino license for Allen County, requiring the winning operator to pay a $50 million licensing fee.
Similar proposals stalled last year after strong opposition, but critics have continued to press lawmakers this session. More than 30 people spoke during the public comment period. Only a handful voiced support for the casino, while most warned of harmful consequences.
Local voices highlight social and economic risks
Opponents cited gambling addiction, crime, bankruptcy, and family instability. Many described Allen County as a family-oriented community and argued a casino would undermine those values.
Brandon Bower, representing faith-based organizations and nonprofits, shared his personal experience. “Folks get caught up in it, and before long they’ve lost their jobs, their homes, even their families,” he said.
Chris Popp said the region has seen strong economic growth without gambling. “We’ve had great economic growth without the negative side effects of a casino,” he said.
Dr. Paul Scaer called casinos a drain on communities. “They take mothers and fathers away from their families, and you end up with bankruptcy,” he said.
A prepared statement from State Sen. Liz Brown, R-Fort Wayne, described casinos as targeting people who can least afford to lose money. Brown cited research suggesting every dollar in gambling tax revenue creates three dollars in related social costs and linked gambling to higher rates of suicide attempts and substance abuse.
Economic incentives drive push for Allen County casino
Supporters highlighted economic benefits. Greater Fort Wayne Inc. released a study conducted by consulting firm CBRE projecting more than $107 million in statewide tax revenue, with Fort Wayne receiving about $25 million. The report also estimated roughly 950 direct jobs in gaming, hospitality, food service, and security.
A representative said a casino would boost the hospitality industry by attracting visitors who spend at hotels, restaurants, and shops. “The benefits are compelling and clear,” the representative said.
Local business owner Denny Worman questioned why gambling dollars should continue flowing to Michigan. “The same people are going to come here,” he said.
State Rep. Kyle Miller expressed support in a statement read during the hearing, saying a casino could provide local revenue and regulated growth, benefiting workers and public services if handled transparently.
Council forwards public input to state lawmakers
Council members stayed neutral, reiterating that the final decision will be made in Indianapolis.
Both bills remain in committee, but the debate broadened this week. On Jan. 22, a House committee voted to include DeKalb, Steuben, and Wayne counties as potential locations for a relocated or new casino license.
By the end of the night, the strong local opposition was clear. Many residents warned that any short-term financial gain could come at the expense of long-term harm to families and neighborhoods. Supporters continued to argue that new jobs and tax revenue would strengthen the region while potential downsides could be managed.
That resistance aligns with broader public sentiment in Indiana: a new statewide poll found most Hoosiers opposed legal online casino gambling after learning how mobile access could impact families and local communities.
The Allen County Council plans to forward the full recordings of the hearing to lawmakers as legislators consider next steps.
