(ANGOLA) - Steuben County officials and Republican leaders are making a coordinated push to be included in Indiana's ongoing casino expansion discussions, arguing the county's location, tourism base, and infrastructure make it a strong contender for a northeast Indiana casino.
At a recent chairman's breakfast open to the public, County GOP Chair Rick Michael said the goal was to address community concerns while outlining what supporters see as significant economic benefits. Michael acknowledged long-standing worries about gambling addiction but said a casino could provide a much-needed expansion of the local tax base.
Michael pointed to Steuben County's strategic location at the crossroads of Interstate 69 and the Indiana Toll Road, with access to Interstates 80 and 90. He described the area as a proven tourism destination and said a casino could draw visitors from Michigan and across Indiana while easing the tax burden on residents.
The local push follows action by the Steuben County Board of Commissioners, which voted unanimously in late 2025 to formally express interest in hosting a casino. Commission President Wil Howard later testified before the Indiana General Assembly, urging lawmakers not to limit the conversation to Fort Wayne and Allen County.
Howard told lawmakers a casino in Steuben County could create between 800 and 1,000 direct jobs, with average wages estimated between $40,000 and $45,000.
State lawmakers are currently considering two main paths for gaming expansion in 2026. One proposal would relocate the underperforming Rising Star Casino license to Allen County. Another would create a new casino license through a competitive bidding process.
A state-commissioned study by Spectrum Gaming Group previously identified Auburn and Indianapolis as top relocation sites. Steuben County leaders argue the study did not fully account for their existing tourism economy, highway access, and available land. Allen County leaders have also expressed a desire to be considered as a possible casino location.
As the debate continues, commissioners have directed the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation and the county's tourism bureau to gather more data on the social and economic impacts of a casino. While some lawmakers, including State Sen. Tyler Johnson, have expressed opposition to a northeast Indiana casino, Steuben County leaders say their priority is ensuring local residents are represented.
No decision has been made on whether -- or where -- a casino will be built in northeast Indiana, with lawmakers expected to continue discussions during the 2026 legislative session.