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rms.- <br /> Community and Economic Development Committee <br /> April 14, 1997 <br /> Page 2 <br /> Under public comment, Becky Bohman of the Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph <br /> County stated that no goods and no services would result from the Potowatami Indians <br /> establishing a casino in the city of South Bend or St. Joseph County. She stated that the <br /> casino is not inevitable and that it should be a choice. She stated that all commissions <br /> should study to cost to society,the effect on value systems and the effect on families. <br /> Charlotte Huddleston spoke in favor of the proposed casino stating that she believed it <br /> would open up new jobs to the community. <br /> Mr. John Wolfe of the Indiana Coalition against gambling is the St. Joseph County <br /> Coordinator from Valporaiso,Indiana. He spoke in favor of the proposed resolution. He <br /> said that a state wide referendum should take place. He stated that it is bad economics,bad <br /> government and bad for families to have casinos. <br /> Mr.William Conners from Michigan spoke in favor of the bill. <br /> Mr. Richard Warner of North Liberty the President of the NLTC spoke in favor of the <br /> proposed resolution. <br /> Mr. Kevin Butler an attorney for the Pokagon band of Indians spoke in opposition to the <br /> proposed resolution. <br /> Mr. Mike Wesaw the Financial Director of the Pokagon band of Indians spoke in <br /> opposition to the proposed resolution. He stated that no one understands the Indiana <br /> Gaming Policy Act. <br /> Mr. Greg Baloo of the Pokagon band of Indians spoke in opposition to the proposed <br /> resolution. He stated that the Tribal Council has been in operation for 12 years. <br /> Mr.Dennis Staley stated that he is from the St.Joseph County Building Trades and that he <br /> has circulated a petition which had over 300 signatures in favor of the casinos. <br /> Chris Loveett of the Union Steel Workers spoke in opposition to the resolution. He stated <br /> that jobs are critical to the area. <br /> Mr. Robert J. Moody Jr. of the Pokagon band of Indians spoke in opposition to the <br /> proposed resolution. <br /> Under committee discussion, Council Member Coleman stated that the overall intent is to <br /> establish a specific local Study Commission so that citizens can gain information and take <br /> responsible action. <br /> Council President Kelly stated that all aspects of gaming should be studied through both a <br /> state and local commission. He stated that reasoned decision making must take place. <br /> Following much discussion, Council Member Coleman made a motion seconded by <br /> Council Member Pfeifer that new Section two be added to the bill (See attached bill). The <br /> motion passed. <br />