Las Vegas casinos and Online gambling

Orange County Casino Assured $382 Million Investment

A partner in the Orange County casino development moved Friday to dispel any doubts about its commitment to the $382 million gambling project.

Bloomingtom-based Cook Group officials released a statement 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, Indiana-based Lauth Property Group.

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.

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.

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.

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 fort he long term.