Menominee Tribe could propose $200 million for new Bucks arena in exchange for a "yes" to Kenosha casino

MILWAUKEE/KENOSHA (WITI) -- It's a huge new offer to help fund a new arena in downtown Milwaukee -- but there's a very big string attached. According to FOX6's radio partner WISN Radio, and its host Mark Belling, a major announcement is expected Tuesday, February 10th regarding the future of the new Milwaukee Bucks arena. Mark Belling is reporting the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin is expected to make a major financial offer in exchange for something they want -- a casino in Kenosha.

The push to build a new Milwaukee Bucks arena could be gaining some major financial support, but the funding would come with strings attached.

"I would like to see a new arena. To lose the Bucks would be horrible," Bucks fan Wayne Zerba said.

Fans at the Bucks' Monday night game vs. the Nets reacted to a report by WISN Radio host Mark Belling that the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin is expected to offer $200 million for the arena project in exchange for Governor Scott Walker reversing his decision and approving the tribe's proposal for a casino in Kenosha.

"I don`t think going with the tribe would be the route to go. I don`t think so," Zerba said.

Some fans who admit they want a new Bucks arena say they're not comfortable with the possible offer.

"There`s enough people, other money coming from everywhere else," Bucks fan Dan Kerkela said.

But some fans say they'd be on board with the plan.

"I think it`s a good idea. They can build a casino. I have no reason why not to build it," Bucks fan John Barbee said.

Governor Walker rejected plans for the Kenosha casino -- saying the state risked losing millions to the Potawatomi Tribe. The Potawatomi operate a casino in Milwaukee and would need to be reimbursed for any lost business.

Walker had proposed a state bond of $200 million to help pay for the arena. The money from the Menominee Tribe would eliminate the need for any state or local funding for the arena project.

Former Bucks owner Herb Kohl and the Bucks current owners Wes Edens and Marc Lasry have already pledged more than $200 million to the arena project.

A Bucks fan from Chicago says the decision is easy.

"I would like to see them take it, but it`s easy for me to say. It`s not my tax money," Dave Ericksen said.

Milwaukee Bucks officials and Menominee tribal leaders weren't confirming this plan Monday evening.

The Milwaukee Bucks say they'll hold a press conference Tuesday, February 10th at 1:30 p.m. at the Cousin's Center, where they'll "share an announcement about an exciting new partnership that further strengthens the team's bonds in southeastern Wisconsin." A Bucks spokesman tells FOX6 News this will not be a press conference with the Menominee Tribe.

FOX6 News has learned state lawmakers have planned a news conference for Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Capitol in Madison.

CLICK HERE for further coverage of the proposed Kenosha casino via FOX6Now.com.

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