Developers: Casino would mean jobs, draw millions

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (AP) — Developers say a proposed casino and resort near Hardeeville would create 4,700 jobs statewide and draw millions of visitors a year.

The Island Packet reports (http://bit.ly/zqUboJ ) the complex would be owned by the Cherokee Indians and construction on the project, including a 400-room luxury hotel, could be under way in two years.

The project is projected to attract 4.3 million visitors and pump $92 million into the Jasper County economy yearly.

Consultant Bob McAlister says developers aren’t seeking any tax incentives. He says he doesn’t know of any other project in the state where so many jobs would be created without asking for any money.

But the casino still must get state approval, and Gov. Nikki Haley is opposed. Her spokesman has said there are better ways to create jobs.

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Information from: The Island Packet, http://www.islandpacket.com