MEDIA CONTACT:
STEVEN ENGELHARDT (314) 504-4029
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MONDAY 7.19.10

Clay Tells Missouri Gaming Commission that North County Project

Could Produce Thousands of New Jobs

Proposed Spanish Lake Casino Would Generate 1,500 Full-time Jobs,

$300 Million in Total Economic Impact

WASHINGTON, DC- In a letter to the Missouri Gaming Commission supporting a proposed casino & entertainment development in Spanish Lake, Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D) Missouri, cited the urgent need to develop new, full-time jobs while still preserving sensitive environmental areas.  In his letter, the Congressman said,  “I am honored to represent North St. Louis County in Congress.  This community has suffered from extremely high rates of unemployment, foreclosures and other economic hardships.  By the most conservative estimates, a new casino and family entertainment/recreation development in North St. Louis County would create 3,000 badly-needed construction jobs, at least 1,500 new full-time jobs, and is projected to generate an overall positive economic impact of up to $300 million for St. Louis County, local municipalities and the State of Missouri.”

Mr. Clay also directly addressed concerns by some citizens who are worried about the potential negative environmental impact that any proposed development could have on a conservation area which is adjacent to the proposed site.  His letter continued, “I am also mindful of significant environmental issues that have been raised by some citizens who are concerned about preserving the fragile wetlands and wildlife areas that are adjacent to the proposed development site.  I share their concerns.  If the North County Casino proposal wins approval from the Missouri Gaming Commission, the U.S Army Corps of Engineers will conduct an extensive investigation and permitting process.  This evaluation will include a public comment period and a formal statement regarding any potential environmental impact.  You can be certain that I would not have given my support to this proposal without first being convinced that we can protect the environment and still create the new economic development and job opportunities that North St. Louis County desperately needs.”

The Missouri Gaming Commission has received multiple applications from several parts of the state for the final gaming license in Missouri.  The process of investigating and evaluating those proposals is expected to take many months.

-30-