Casino news from http://www.courier-journal.com/
A partner in the Orange County casino development moved Friday to dispel any doubts about its commitment to the $382 million gambling project.
A statement released by Bloomington-based Cook Group officials promised that they have made a long-term commitment to the project and to investing in the community.
The announcement clearly was timed to preempt revelations expected early next week about a continuing legal dispute between Cook Group and its partner in the project, Indianapolis-based Lauth Property Group.
Two lawsuits filed against one another last month by the companies have remained under seal in Orange Circuit Court in Paoli at the parties’ request. But a hearing Monday is expected to open the contents of both suits after a hearing on the matter.
The Courier-Journal and representatives for newspapers in Bedford and Bloomington, as well as an investor group that lost out in a bid to develop the French Lick casino two years ago, have submitted briefs this week asking that the suits be unsealed.
Hoosier gambling regulators acknowledged early last month that the Cook and Lauth were at odds and had entered mediation to resolve their differences.
The two companies formed Blue Sky Casino LLC and signed a long-term contract last November with the Indiana Gaming Commission to open a 1,200-slot casino by late this year. The project also includes renovations for two century-old historic hotels, as well as the construction of a new 18-hole golf course, parking garage and convention center.
Cook Group president Steve Ferguson said in an interview Friday that word of the dispute between Cook and Lauth has created concerns about whether the project will be completed.
“I just want to alleviate concerns of employees, the people of Orange County and state government … that we are fully committed to this project,” he said.
Ferguson said that he and Lauth executives remain under a confidentiality agreement involving the two suits, and he declined to answer any questions.
He was asked about whether he believes Lauth is committed to the project for the long term.
“We have a partner, and whether they stay or go obviously is up to them,” Ferguson said.
A message left Friday morning for Lauth general counsel Vernon Back was not returned.
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