New Haven, Indiana, is making waves in the gaming world as Mayor Steve McMichael throws his full support behind a plan to relocate a casino to the town, just outside of Fort Wayne. The relocation, spearheaded by Full House Resorts, has been met with both enthusiasm and skepticism. However, McMichael has defended the proposal, citing the potential economic benefits and the comprehensive research backing the project.
In an exclusive interview with WANE 15 on November 26, 2024, Mayor McMichael addressed the controversy surrounding the casino’s relocation, offering insight into why he believes this project is a positive move for his community. The decision comes after months of deliberation and research, and while it has its critics, McMichael is steadfast in his support.
A Relocation That Could Change New Haven
The proposed relocation of the casino would move it from southern Indiana to the southeast corner of U.S. 30 and I-469, strategically located near Fort Wayne. The relocation has the potential to bring in millions of dollars in revenue to the town, creating new jobs and boosting the local economy.
However, this has not been without opposition. Many critics argue that relocating a casino to the area could increase gambling-related issues, particularly given the proximity to Fort Wayne. Still, McMichael, after weighing all the factors, believes the rewards outweigh the risks. He pointed to a 2022 study conducted by the Indiana University School of Public Health and the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling as a key factor in his decision-making process.
Data-Driven Decision
Mayor McMichael admitted that his initial reaction to Full House’s proposal was one of skepticism. When approached by the casino giant in May, he was cautious. “The easy thing for me to do would have been to say, ‘no,’” McMichael shared. But instead of dismissing the idea outright, McMichael chose to dive into the data.
The 2022 study helped alleviate many of his concerns. It indicated that the economic impact of such a relocation could be substantial, with potential increases in jobs, local business revenues, and tax contributions. The report also suggested that the social risks—such as problem gambling—could be mitigated through proper regulations and community outreach.
Scholars behind the study acknowledged that while gambling addiction could be a concern, proper safeguards could prevent it from becoming a major issue. “The right regulatory framework is key to making this a success,” said one of the study’s authors. For McMichael, these findings were pivotal in making his decision.
Economic Impact: Jobs and Revenue
One of the primary advantages of the casino’s relocation to New Haven is the anticipated economic boost. The project is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the region, ranging from construction positions to long-term employment opportunities in the casino itself.
In addition to job creation, the move is expected to increase local tax revenue, benefiting the city’s infrastructure and public services. McMichael highlighted the potential for improvements to local roads, public facilities, and schools, all of which could be funded by the new tax income generated by the casino.
The town of New Haven, with its proximity to Fort Wayne, is seen as an ideal location for this expansion, offering both accessibility and space to accommodate a large gaming facility.
Addressing the Opposition
Despite the data and potential economic benefits, McMichael acknowledged the concerns of critics. Some fear that the casino could bring about negative social consequences, such as an increase in problem gambling or crime. Others worry about the social fabric of New Haven and whether the town would be forever changed by the influx of gaming-related tourism.
While McMichael respects these concerns, he remains confident that the project can be successful with the right regulations in place. “We are committed to ensuring that any risks are managed responsibly,” he said. The mayor pointed to the fact that many other towns with casinos have successfully integrated gaming facilities into their communities without significant negative impacts.
In fact, several casinos in Indiana, such as the ones in southern parts of the state, have already contributed significantly to local economies, with communities experiencing fewer issues than some critics initially feared.
What’s Next for New Haven?
As the proposal moves forward, New Haven residents can expect more public hearings and discussions about the casino’s relocation. Mayor McMichael promised transparency throughout the process, ensuring that the community’s concerns would be heard. He urged locals to engage in the ongoing conversations, citing the importance of community input.
“I want to make sure that this decision is in the best interest of New Haven,” McMichael said. He emphasized that, should the project move forward, the town would work closely with Full House Resorts to implement effective safeguards and address potential issues early on.
