By: Jessica Cihacek
jcihacek@kcautv.com
Penn National Gaming is proposing to employ Argosy employees when the Riverboat closes. MRHD is proposing to bring in a nationally recognized name with a taste of Las Vegas gaming.
Members of Ho Chunk, Inc. will be the first to admit they've got a lot against them. But CEO, Lance Morgan says they've also got a lot going for them.
Morgan says, "We're local. I mean so much of the money has gone to Pennsylvania over the years, now, it may go to Las Vegas if MRHD's partner is awarded the license. You've got to think of Sioux City as an economic engine."
Ho Chunk and its partnering non-profit,"Siouxland Strong," anticipates to employ 461 employees if it's proposed, "Warrior Casino & Hotel" is approved by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
But that's not all.
With part of the money that's generated from this casino, Ho Chunk anticipates to generate something else.
Morgan explains, "I'm thinking more along the lines of large-scale projects that are going to help create jobs. That's what Sioux City needs."
But even if Ho Chunk's plan fails, Morgan says, the Siouxland community can rest assured. He and the rest of his corporation won't be discouraged from continuing their economic development mission and promise to this area.
Morgan adds, "Think about it. If Penn loses, you'll never hear from them again. If the Hard Rock loses, you'll never hear from Warner Entertainment again. If we lose, we'll still be here, creating jobs."
The next IRGC meeting is Thursday in Johnston, Iowa where all the non-profits and their potential operators will be laying out more details in regards to their proposals.
