Construction workers support proposed Kenosha casino plan

KENOSHA (WITI) -- If you build it, they will come. That's the message from construction workers in Kenosha, who support the proposed Hard Rock Casino project. It would be built at the old Dairyland Greyhound Park site in Kenosha.

Construction workers and contractors in Kenosha say the proposed casino will not take away business from the Potawatomi. But more importantly, they say their area will benefit greatly from the anticipated economic development.

Camosy Construction sits right near the Illinois border in Kenosha. It's a third-generation business that's been hit hard during the recession. Owner John Camosy is joined by dozens of others with the Tri-County Contractors Association urging Gov. Scott Walker to support the Menominee Tribe's project.

"Many of my friends and coworkers in the last several years have found themselves unemployed or underemployed," said Camosy.

The group believes the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Kenosha would create 1,400 construction jobs -- and spur retail and restaurant development in the area.

"This is going to complement the large developments coming in, like Amazon and the Majestic project," said Rep. Samantha Kerkman, a Republican from Kenosha.

In order to move forward, Gov. Walker says he wants consensus among the state's 11 Native American tribes. The Ho-Chunk and Potawatomi are against the proposed casino -- they believe the Hard Rock will likely compete with their existing casinos and plans.

Executive Director Brian Nemoir of the group "Enough Already Wisconsin" is urging Gov. Walker to do the opposite. He believes there are too many gaming sites in Wisconsin. He's betting this one would not be successful.

"There is a finite amount of gaming dollars.  You look at revenues the past few years - we`re at a steady decrease - not an increase," said Nemoir.

Gov. Walker is expected to make his final decision on the Kenosha casino plan on Friday, October 25th.