My initial reaction to hearing about a Casino in Sandestin was negative. Now, knowing more information and having had time to adjust to the idea, I am strongly in support of it.
My reasons:
1. Entertainment- a casino will bring nightly, high-quality entertainment. Shows, comedians, singers, etc. Currently we have no draw or venue to accommodate this quality of entertainment.
2. Size and scope- if you build a casino in Freeport- there is no limited to the sprawl that could occur. You are envisioning a mini-Vegas or Buloxi? That could eventually occur in Freeport. Not in Sandestin. The parcel it will be built on in Sandestin is a limited size parcel- enough for 1 casino tower. It will have entrances and parking on 98- so will not increase the traffic in the resort- other than the traffic from increased guest, which god forbid we have increased guests on resort. Sandestin owners, 70% of which rent of there homes, would welcome the increased activity, which would likely double.
3. Increased quality of surroundings- a casino is a major profit center, pouring millions of dollars into the county's budget, law enforcement, and the resort. All quality standards will double. Property values will increase due to increased rental revenues and added value.
Yes, the casino will be a great thing for SoWal. Do I think the economy of Freeport would benefit from the casino being built in Freeport? Of course. But the casino will bring jobs to this county that can and will be filled by Freeport residents, regardless of where in SoWal it is built. You have to look at what is more appealing to the clientele. Nobody wants to go to WindCreek. Clients need a well-developed cosmopolitan area with restaurants, shopping, an entertainment. They aren't going to want to stay in the middle of 331 and be bussed to the beach. We are talking about a high class clientele.