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Sumner County Commissioners endorse only Wellington casino proposal

July 22, 2010|by Kim Hynes | KWCH 12 Eyewitness News

(SUMNER COUNTY, Kan.) —

Harrah's is the only developer so far to release some details of what's planned. It includes a casino, restaurants, 100 room hotel and a meeting and entertainment venue.  Other amenities would be planned in future expansion.

Harrah's Kansas received the first contract to build a casino but pulled out in 2008. At the time the company blamed the downturn in the economy.  A spokeswoman says this time things are different.  Back in 2008, Harrah's had investment partners and they all experienced financial problems.  She says this time Harrah's is proposing the project on its own and has the money to build it.

The developers must turn in their proposals to Sumner County by July 29.  That's when more specific details including illustrations are expected.  Sumner County will hold a meeting August 10th to endorse the proposals. They can endorse all, none or some but an endorsement is needed to move on for state consideration.

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The Kansas Lottery has until October 20 to review the applications and negotiate contracts.  If contracts are negotiated and the developers get an endorsement, the proposals will be passed to the Lottery Review Board. The review board makes the final determination on which casino will be built.

This is the third time the Lottery has received casino proposals.  As mentioned, Harrah's pulled out in 2008.  Earlier this year, the state and Lakes Entertainment were unable to reach a contract so Lakes walked away.  Many in Sumner County tell us they hope the third time is the charm.

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