The Russellville Planning Commission last night approved a development plan for the Cherokee Nation’s Legends Resort and Casino.
It’s perhaps some indication that resistance to a casino in Pope County isn’t as fierce as it once was. Legends has a permit, but some court cases remain to be decided and opponents of the casino have submitted petitions for a statewide vote on revoking the authorization of a Pope County casino.
Meanwhile, the Cherokee Nation is emphasizing the positive:
A statement from Chuck Garrett, CEO. Cherokee Nation Businesses:
“Pope County deserves a casino resort destination that is truly unmatched and that visitors from across the region and state will enjoy. Receiving unanimous approval from the Russellville Planning Commission on the large-scale development plan for Legends Resort & Casino marks another exciting milestone in this process. We are excited to share that we have already acquired more than 140 acres of land, and we remain focused on obtaining the necessary permits and approvals so that we can proceed with construction once all outstanding litigation is resolved. Furthermore, our commitment to fulfilling the terms of the Economic Development Agreement executed with Pope County as well as seeking voluntary annexation into Russellville remain fully intact.”