Richmond is on a Roll
Richmond is on a Roll is a community education campaign led by the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce.
The purpose of this effort is to provide clear, factual information to local residents while advocating to state-level decision-makers for why Richmond and Wayne County should be considered as part of Indiana’s broader economic development strategy.
This campaign focuses on transparency, data, and public understanding. It exists to keep the community informed as the process moves forward.
Why Wayne County?
Indiana’s gaming policy prioritizes locations that can generate new revenue for the state rather than shifting dollars between communities. Wayne County stands out because of its location, access, and proximity to out-of-state markets.
Richmond sits directly on the Ohio border across from the Dayton metro area. This location creates an opportunity to capture entertainment spending currently leaving Indiana while minimizing impact on existing Indiana casinos.
Wayne County also offers strong infrastructure, including multiple interstate exits, established utilities, and development-ready sites.
Community Economic Development Benefits
A casino in Richmond would support community-focused economic development in Wayne County by creating new jobs, increasing local revenue, and maximizing tourism revenue at nearby businesses. If approved, the project would also contribute new resources that may be directed toward local priorities such as public services, infrastructure, and long-term community investment.
Any potential benefits, however, would depend on a structured approval process. The proposal would require state authorization, opportunity for residents to weigh in through a public vote, and regulatory review. These steps are designed to ensure the project is evaluated carefully and reflects the community’s priorities.
LOCAL JOBS AND WORKFORCE STABILITY
According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, casino-related occupations in Indiana support average annual wages of approximately $41,000–$43,000 per year (about $20–$21 per hour), exceeding the national median wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
BRINGING NEW DOLLARS TO THE COMMUNITY
Visitor spending can support local restaurants, hotels, transportation providers, and small businesses, helping dollars circulate within Wayne County.
REVITALIZATION AND SITE REUSE
Large developments can help activate underutilized sites and encourage reinvestment in surrounding areas.
SUPPORTING LOCAL SERVICES
Casino operations generate tax revenue under Indiana law that supports public priorities.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
In many communities, casino operators partner with local organizations on workforce training, education programs, and community initiatives.
How the Process Works
Before a casino moves forward in Richmond, several required steps must take place, and each step includes public oversight and formal review.
First, the Indiana General Assembly must approve legislation that authorizes either a new casino license or the relocation of an existing one. Without action by lawmakers, the process cannot begin.
Second, Wayne County residents would have the final say through a public referendum. No casino can move forward without voter approval. This step ensures the community is able to weigh in directly before any final decisions are made.
Finally, the Indiana Gaming Commission would conduct a full regulatory and financial review. That process typically includes evaluating the casino operator's qualifications across multiple areas, financial stability, compliance history, and operational plans. The goal is to ensure any proposal meets state standards for responsibility, transparency, and integrity.
Overall, this is a public, regulated, and community-driven process designed to provide multiple layers of accountability, and to ensure the outcome reflects both state requirements and local input.
