Campaign groups on both sides of Indiana’s proposed inland casino expansion are organizing ahead of the November 3 referendum, when voters in Allen, DeKalb and Steuben counties will decide whether casino gambling should be allowed in their respective counties.
The ballot question asks voters whether inland casino gambling should be permitted in their county. Approval would make a county eligible to host a casino, although state officials could ultimately authorize only one new casino. The outcome will determine which counties can proceed to the next stage of the casino approval process in Indiana.
Allen County Campaign Begins Outreach
In Allen County, Advance Fort Wayne Allen County has established the Yes for Allen campaign website. The political action committee describes itself as a bipartisan group of business, community and union leaders. Ad executive Tom Borne is involved with the organization, while Tom Kelley and Mike Gouloff serve as its co-chairs.
Borne said the campaign does not view the referendum as a contest between counties. “We view this as a shared opportunity for Allen County and Northeast Indiana to come together, create jobs, keep more dollars here at home, and build a stronger economic future for our entire community,” Borne said.
The PAC says its purpose is to “educate voters and advocate for a favorable vote on the November 3 referendum.”
Supporters say a casino-resort could create thousands of jobs if voters approve the measure and a project eventually moves forward. They also argue that new revenue could benefit public safety, schools, tourism and social services. The campaign is presenting the proposal as an economic opportunity for Allen County and the wider Northeast Indiana region.
Steuben Organizers Make Their Case
Steuben County has also seen formal campaign activity. Businessmen including Michael Votaw and Charles Nedele filed paperwork for a committee called Steuben – Where Fun Wins.
The group presents a casino-resort as an opportunity for “long-term prosperity.” Its formation adds another organized pro-casino effort to the campaign ahead of the November vote.
While the campaigns promoting casino development have begun building support, opponents are also preparing for the referendum.
The Coalition for a Better Indiana has raised concerns about potential crime and the effects of gambling on families. The group is using an online petition that sends messages to state lawmakers.
Its petition argues that “a casino will cannibalize local businesses, put a strain on local law enforcement, lower property values in the vicinity, and encourage risky behaviors while changing the family-friendly character of our community forever.”
Approval Would Begin A Longer Process
A favorable county vote would not immediately authorize casino construction. Local government officials would first have to approve the project. Only then could a casino operator choose a location and file an application with the Indiana Gaming Commission.
The commission would make the final decision by mid-April of the following year. Until then, any proposed development would remain subject to additional local and state approvals.
The November 3 vote therefore represents an early stage in the process. Voters in Allen, DeKalb and Steuben counties will determine whether their counties can continue toward consideration for the state’s potential inland casino.
Source:
“Casino campaigns mobilize in Allen and Steuben counties ahead of November vote”, 21alivenews.com, July 31, 2026
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