roposed South Bend casino clears environmental hurdle

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) – A draft study by the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs says a tribal village and casino in South Bend being proposed by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi would have no significant environmental impact outside of traffic congestion.

The South Bend Tribune reports the report says the development would provide necessary revenue to sustain the tribal village, which would provide housing and services to as many as 600 Indiana band members.

Tribal Chairman John Warren said the draft study is an important step in a process that began more than two years ago. The Indian Affairs Bureau next must hold a public hearing on the proposal.

A local group called “Citizens for a Better Michiana” says the casino would have a negative impact on the community’s quality of life.

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Information from: South Bend Tribune, http://www.southbendtribune.com