Plans for Rotate Black Casino in Gulfport Still Alive

Casinos are vital to the economy of the Gulf Coast, and Thursday, the Mississippi Gaming Commission appointed two new members, both Gulfport natives, but what wasn’t on the agenda was the Rotate Black casino, which has been in the works for over five years, and is trying to make a push to start development this year.

The Mississippi Gaming Commission meeting Thursday didn’t last long, but did bring new blood and fresh ideas to the board after the appointment of Gulfport locals, Al Hopkins and Jerry Griffith. Allen Godfrey, Executive Director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission, says, "It’s very important to appoint the right people to the Gaming Commission, and if history repeats itself, they will be men of integrity and honest and engaged in the industry and the community."

These nominees will be confirmed at the next commission meeting, and can then begin helping to regulate the millions in revenue casinos bring to the Coast. Godfrey also says, "The tax money that is generated is very important, but I think it’s good for the tourist environment here. It gives people another reason to come to Mississippi."

Gulfport is looking to add another reason to come to Mississippi. The Rotate Black Hemmingway Resort and Casino, which has been in the works for over five years and has been approved by the Gaming Commission, has failed to meet financial reporting deadlines. David Parker, Economic Development Director for Gulfport, says, "There’s been a little bit of talk about trying to get financing. We haven’t met with any of the people to get any clue of where they are."

The Rotate Black Resort and Casino will be built in the area just west of Jones Park and will bring additional jobs and revenue to the growing City of Gulfport. Parker also says, "Whether it’s a casino, a manufacturing facility, or any job producing economic engine here in Gulfport, that’s my job, that what I try to help facilitate and here in Gulfport, it’s a pretty easy job. We’ve got a great environment, we’ve got a great work force, we’ve got a great city."

While the city is interested in adding another casino, the Gaming Commission says the ball is in Rotate Black’s court. Godfrey closes, "If someone can meet the financial requirements and the infrastructure requirements, we welcome them to the industry."

Rotate Black’s management will have to wait until next month’s April 19th meeting to begin the development process again.