Lac du Flambeau - State to meet over Shullsberg casino proposal

The tribe invoked a clause in its gaming compact that requires officials to meet with them within 30 days of a written notice to resolve a dispute. Gov. Scott McCallum's office received the notice July 16.

But little resulted from the Aug. 14 meeting except for the tribe discussing concerns about the proposed casino in southwestern Wisconsin. McCallum spoeswoman Debbie Monterrey-Millett said Aug. 16. McCallum did not participate in the meeting.

The tribe needs approval from local governments and the BIA before the governor can consider the proposed casino, she said. Lafayette County and Shullsburg village officials already have agreed with the tribe on a casino contract.

"The state can't negotiate anything until they get their approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs," Monterrey-Millett said.

Lact du Flamlbeau attorney Carol Brown did not immediately return a telephone message The Associated Press left at her office.

McCallum refused earlier this year to approve a proposed casino in Hudson that had BIA approval. He has repeatedly said that he would not approve any expansion of gambling in Wisconsin while in office.