On Wednesday, a hearing took place in Indianapolis for Senate Bill 293. Those for and against moving the Rising Star casino, located on the Ohio River, spoke before the Public Policy committee, including Mayor McMichael. The bill was introduced earlier this month by Senator Andy Zay, R-Huntington.

The committee did not vote on the bill, however the Indiana Capital Chronicle reported that Senator Ron Alting, who chairs the Public Policy Committee told the publication he, “doesn’t intend to hold a vote this year.” Three state legislators who represent New Haven have previously come out against the casino move.

In the statement issued by Mayor McMichael, he admits he was initially skeptical about bringing a resort and casino to New Haven. But he wanted the community as a whole to discuss the proposal and eventually he decided the addition of the casino would be a good thing for his community.

“I respect the legislative process and if the statehouse decides not to hear the bill or add the language to another bill, I am at peace with the process and have no regrets,” stated McMichael.

Mayor McMichael’s Full Statement

When reached by WANE 15 regarding what he plans to do moving forward, he offered this response.

“I will not actively seek another home for the license relocation language but given the overwhelming support relayed to me by the citizens of New Haven, if another legislator wanted to insert language from SB 293 I’d consider supporting it." says New Haven Mayor Steve McMichael

Plans to move the Rising Star Casino, operated by Full House Resorts, surfaced back in August of last year. In November, Full House Resorts released conceptual drawings for the proposed casino which would be located on land next to the I-469 and U.S. 30 interchange west of Doyle Road.

The Rising Star Casino first opened in 1996, but revenue has slowed since the opening of casinos across the river in the Cincinnati area. Full House Resorts, which operates the casino, believes the operation would be much more profitable in New Haven.