Bossier City Council votes to spend $6 million on infrastructure to new casino
By: Morgan Thomas
Updated: May 16, 2012
Bossier City Council members just voted to approve an infrastructure project that will help their newest casino, Margaritaville. It will be funded by a 2007 transportation bond. While city officials believe the $6,000,000 investment means more revenue for the city in the future, some residents have big concerns.
Margaritaville is voter approved, and is going up at a fast pace.
"I did think it was a good idea because it was going to bring jobs to us and stuff," said Chassidy Kyle, Bossier City resident.
Kyle and her mom, Debra Adkins, live in Bossier City. As tax-payers, they're surprised by the city council's plan to spend $6 million of their tax money to help it go up faster.
"No, no I did have no idea about that," said Kyle.
Adkins believes that money should go toward services instead of helping a casino.
"Take that money and open up a shelter for animals or homeless kids," said Adkins.
Ida Burnett says she isn't for casinos in the first place, and doesn't agree with the council's plan to construct what will become Margaritaville Way.
"I went there once and I was getting poorer because they were taking what I had away from me and that wasn't helping me at all," said Burnett.
While some folks may not be excited about getting the casino up and running with tax-payers money, the city council is banking on the belief that Margaretville will bring in big bucks to Bossier City.
"It's going to improve traffic flow and it's also going to Margaritaville which we think is a great investment in the future of Bossier City," said Larry Hanisee, Bossier City Council, District 5.
Like the old saying, 'If you build it, they will come', Hanisee thinks this infrastructure project will encourage more people to spend their money in Bossier City.
"I'm looking forward to to themed area and will be a draw not only for gaming patrons but for area to come and be a part of it," said Hanisee.
Yet, another casino added to the skyline doesn't appeal to all.
"I just think the boats are a bunch of things just trying to rip everybody off," said Burnett.
