Proposed resort/casino gets mixed reaction from Peoria
Peoria Mayor Bob Barrett described the recent federal decision to approve the Tohono O’odham Nation’s application to turn land near the city into a reservation as “fabulous good news,” while several other city leaders had little or no comment.
The latter say they await more information on the potential impact of the tribe’s planned resort and casino on 54 acres near 91st and Northern avenues. Although much of the unincorporated property is surrounded by Glendale, its northern edge borders Peoria.
“As far as I’m concerned, this will undoubtedly help Peoria,” Barrett said, citing jobs and boosts to nearby retail shops.
As city planners draft strategies for growth and jobs, they see the casino as a catalyst for redevelopment along Northern Avenue.
Councilman Carlo Leone, who represents the area near the proposed casino, would not comment on the project. He did indicate the full council might not be as supportive as the mayor.
“Just because the mayor supports something doesn’t mean everyone else supports that thing, too,” Leone said.
The Tohono O’odham proposal has generated plenty of controversy since being unveiled in January 2009.
Eighteen months later, the U.S. Department of Interior on Friday said it would take the land into the reservation system. The tribe still must seek federal government go-ahead to allow gaming on the land. A timeline on that decision is unknown.
As for taking the land into the reservation, the Interior Department will allow 30 days for public comment.
The issue is sure to get comment.
Leaders from neighboring Glendale have been far from discreet about their opposition to the planned West Valley Resort. They, along with Arizona Sens. John McCain and Jon Kyl, and Gov. Jan Brewer, a Glendale resident, all oppose the plans. The reasons vary. Some oppose what they say would be a negative impact on neighborhoods. Glendale leaders say the casino would drain resources such as water, police and roads.
Barrett said he would be comfortable forming agreements for Peoria to provide the tribe with those services.
“They’re going to pay for the services they use, so it won’t be a burden on city taxpayers,” Barrett said.
Barrett said his Glendale counterparts are taking a short-term view of losing business to competition from the casino.
“But in the long run it will benefit everybody,” Barrett said.
He cited the 6,000 jobs during construction and 3,000 permanent jobs the project backers tout. “Of the potential 9,000 people, some are bound to live in Peoria,” he said.
The mayor also expects spillover traffic from the casino into neighboring retail, such as Peoria Crossings on the northern side of Northern Avenue and Park West, an outdoor shopping and restaurant complex, a bit further west on Northern.
“If anyone wants to buy a T-shirt they may come to the Target in Peoria or check out Park West (mall) rather than go to Westgate,” Barrett said, in reference to the retail and restaurant development in the nearby Glendale sports and entertainment district.
The Peoria Chamber of Commerce also supports the project for “the economic impact it will bring to the residents of Peoria and the West Valley,” said chamber chief executive Diana Bedient. The tribe is a member of the chamber.
Vice Mayor Ron Aames said some residents are concerned about a casino near homes.
Aames said he planned to speak with City Manager Carl Swenson this week to learn more about the project’s impact on such services as police, roads, water and sewer, and any benefits beyond jobs.
“The argument in favor is it would bring jobs to the area. I would like to learn more about those jobs,” Aames said.
The vice mayor said tribal leaders talked individually with council members when the plans came to light.
But it was never brought for a council vote of support, as was done by the Tolleson City Council six months ago.
“Maybe he (the mayor) felt there wouldn’t be full support,” Aames said.
Councilwoman Vicki Hunt said aesthetically she likes the project, and that it would be of “economic value” to Peoria.
But she acknowledged mixed reactions.
“There are going to be people who don’t like it but there are also going to be people who’ll love it,” she said. Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/community/peoria/articles/2010/07/29/20100729casino-peoria-reaction-0729.html#ixzz0vBMPAZ30
Ready to find a home at a great price in the Phoenix Metro Area. Speak To A Professional RE/MAX Phoenix Realtor NOW….Call : 623-979-8888 We can show you foreclosures, Short Sales, REO, as well as any and all homes for sale in the Maricopa area. Search the complete Phoenix AZ MLS for free a http://www.buyphoenixazhomes.com/
