Missouri: Casino and entertainment district proposal considered in Lake Ozark

The Osage Nation is seeking to move forward with plans to build a $100 million casino and entertainment district in Lake Ozark.

The tribe is working with the federal government to place the project site into trust, which would allow gambling operations. The proposed development includes a hotel, casino, restaurants, and entertainment venues near Osage Beach Parkway and Bagnell Dam Boulevard.

Lake Ozark Mayor David Ridgely said the city is collaborating with the tribe to ensure the project benefits local residents. “Our goal is to make sure the City of Lake Ozark comes out ahead. They’ve been working towards that goal with us as well," he stated, as per a report by KY3.

“They’re going to be using our water and our sewer, using our roads, using our police department, and some of those types of things. They were very great to work with,” added Ridgley.

To cover those costs, the Board of Aldermen is considering two ordinances that would require the Osage Nation to pay its share for city services.

Ridgely said the agreements could double the city’s general revenue fund. “Our revenue is more than that, but that’s just our general. We can go out and do some nice things. We just got done improving roads,” he said. “There are a lot of different things we are working on to try and make the City of Lake Ozark better for our citizens.” 

While the project still has several hurdles ahead, Ridgely remains optimistic about the potential partnership. “All of the communities that I see the Osage Nation go into, they’re good partners in the future. So we’re looking forward to that type of relationship,” he said.

The Board of Aldermen is expected to vote on the proposed ordinances next week. Members of the Osage Nation are expected to attend the meeting.