Rendering of Legends Resort & Casino in Pope County. (Photo courtesy of Legends Resort & Casino)
Arkansas’ casino oversight board took a step Tuesday toward again trying to issue the state’s fourth and final casino operating license.
The Arkansas Racing Commission voted to advance a proposed set of rules that will allow it to open a new application period for companies hoping to build a casino in Pope County.
Those rules must be approved by the governor, survive a 30-day public comment period and gain the support of the state Legislature before they can be formally adopted.
On the most optimistic timeline, the application period couldn’t begin until April, but it could take longer.
Arkansas Racing Commission defers vote on new Pope County casino license process
Commissioners said Tuesday that they hoped the rules and forthcoming permitting process are sound enough to avoid the deluge of lawsuits that have hampered the process for the last five years.
“We’re trying to get the clearest, widest path forward so they can take the ball down and get it across the goal line,” said Chairman Alex Lieblong.