In a significant boost for the proposed casino development at Lake of the Ozarks, the Miller County Commission has unanimously endorsed the initiative led by Osage River Gaming and Convention (ORGC) in collaboration with Bally’s Corporation. This latest show of support comes as the local gaming group strives to bypass the General Assembly by garnering signatures for an initiative petition slated for the statewide November 2024 ballot.

Commission Unanimously Backs Lake Casino, Surprised by Tom Wright’s Endorsement

The commission’s decision follows a brief public comment session, where even former longtime Presiding Commissioner Tom Wright, known for his reservations about the casino, conceded that the county would benefit from the development, albeit not to the extent touted by proponents, reported KRMS Radio. Wright’s opinion underscores the ongoing debate about the economic impact of the proposed casino on the Lake area.

ORGC aims to establish the casino in the vicinity of the quarry near the Osage River Bridge, utilizing a portion of the 90-acre Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 property. This collaboration with Bally’s Corporation, as outlined in a recent letter to the City of Lake Ozark, reflects the gaming group’s commitment to the project’s success.

The casino project, if ultimately approved, will not be a traditional riverboat casino, as ORGC is not obligated to adhere to this specific format under Missouri law. The state’s regulations allow for casinos to be built on the shore, provided they meet certain requirements. Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 falls within the 1,000 feet limit of the Osage River floodplain, complying with the legal framework.

ORGC’s Innovative Vision Redefines Lake of the Ozarks Entertainment

The proposed development goes beyond just the casino, with ORGC envisioning the utilization of approximately 20 acres for the gaming facility and the remaining space dedicated to a hotel, convention center, restaurants, and shops. This comprehensive approach aligns with the evolving landscape of casino establishments, moving away from the traditional riverboat model.

Importantly, the local endorsement received by ORGC is distinct from the efforts of Osage Nation Gaming group, which is still pursuing approval for a separate casino in Lake Ozark, despite facing resistance from the city. The city’s main concern revolves around the potential lack of state regulation and taxation for this alternative casino proposal.

As both gaming groups navigate the complex landscape of approvals, the local community remains engaged in discussions, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of these contrasting casino projects for the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks region. The coming months are poised to be crucial as stakeholders await further developments in this unfolding saga.

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Osage River Gaming and Convention (ORGC) has joined forces with Bally’s Corporation for a new casino project at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri’s premier lake resort destination. The former company is currently working hard on getting its Osage River casino project approved.

The involvement of Bally’s in the project was revealed in a letter from ORGC to the City of Lake Ozark a few days ago. The letter also outlines the gaming group’s planned location for the casino, noting that it would take roughly 20 acres of the 90-acre Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 property. ORGC’s letter also noted that the rest of the area would be redeveloped as a hotel with a convention center, restaurants and shops.

For reference, Eagles’ Landing is a Gary Prewitt-operated development zone on both sides of Highway 54, on the edge of Lake Ozark. Currently, one side of the Eagles’ Landing property sports a variety of shops. The other side, where the Phase 4 parcel is situated, is a quarrying operation.

ORGC Is Not Obliged to Do an Actual Riverboat Casino

In any case, ORGC is not obliged to go for a traditional riverboat casino. While Missouri law is centered on riverboat casinos, it also allows them to be built on the shore, as long as they fulfill a number of requirements. For reference, Missouri defines legal casinos as “excursion gambling boats.” However, the state interprets this term rather broadly and, in 2021, amended the definition to include “nonfloating facilities.”

Despite that, casino operators should still have a few rules in mind. As mentioned, excursion gambling boats can be on the shore, as long as they are within 1,000 feet of the Missouri or Mississippi River (the Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 is within 1,000 of the edge of the Osage River floodplain).

In addition, casino facilities must be licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission. The state currently has only 13 licenses, all of which are handed out to various companies. Finally, gambling properties must have at least 2,000 gallons of water inside or underneath the facility in rigid or semi-rigid containers, tanks or structures.

However, ORGC would still have to secure an amendment that would allow it to build a property on the Osage River.

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