Application deadline for Arkansas casino license is one week away

Several companies could be looking for a seat at the table to construct a casino in Pope County. Official support from the county is required to be considered a valid application, and only the Pope Couty Quorum Court or Judge Ben Cross holds the cards.

Judge Cross says only Cherokee Nation Businesses who would construct Legends Casino and Resort have his support because they already own land, an office, and pay taxes to Pope County. “They have a track record that is proven, and I am going to stick with a proven track record,” Judge Cross said.

Casey Castleberry, counsel for Gulfside Casino Partnership sent a statement saying:

“We appreciate the Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC) making it clear the application period will open Sunday and close on June 12. Prior to the ARC’s deadline, we look forward to presenting our proposal to the Pope County Quorum Court and seeking a resolution of support.”

Cherokee Nation Businesses CEO Chuck Garrett sent a statement saying:

“We appreciate the ongoing efforts of the Arkansas Racing Commission and Attorney General’s office to ensure a smooth process with respect to issuance of the Pope County casino license. Having obtained the exclusive support of Pope County Judge Ben Cross as required by Amendment 100 and a resolution of support from the Pope County Quorum Court, we anticipate being the sole qualified applicant. We look forward to standing before the Arkansas Racing Commission where we will demonstrate our more than 30 years of experience in gaming and hospitality, as well as our plans for Legends Resort & Casino to be built in Russellville.”

Gulfside Casino Partnership is betting against Legends Casino. They hope to slot in with a Pope County Quorum Court resolution of support because the Russellville spot is located perfectly between Arkansas’ two largest population centers, Little Rock and Fayetteville.

During their regular June session later this week, Pope County Quorum Court members will hear from representatives with Gulfside Casino Partnership and Cherokee Nation Businesses. Gulfside last week announced a new proposal, which involves a $405 million casino/resort. Gulfside's proposal also includes $65 million in incentives going to Pope County, Russellville and surrounding communities if the company is awarded the vendor license.

Currently, Cherokee Nations is the only vendor with a letter of endorsement from Pope County, which is a requirement to be considered for the license by the Racing Commission. Thursday's Quorum Court meeting is set for 5:30 p.m.