The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce has announced a campaign to educate the community on issues surrounding the potential for a casino locating here.
Following a state-commissioned study from the Indiana Gaming Commission and a Dec. 16 meeting with community leaders, first reported by WWN in December, the Chamber says its “Richmond is on a Roll” effort will explore Wayne County’s capacity to foster new revenue in the area through legalized gambling.
“As an organization that represents Wayne County’s business community, it is important that we thoughtfully evaluate opportunities that could impact our local economy and quality of place,” said Melissa Vance, president and CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, in a news release. “Richmond is on a Roll reflects our commitment to transparency and public education so residents, businesses and local leaders understand the process and the facts as this discussion continues.”
Vance said the campaign aims to make sure the public understands what is being discussed, the decisions required, and how residents can have a voice in the process.
Richmond Mayor Ron Oler called the opportunity exciting for Richmond and Wayne County. “Our community has made meaningful investments in infrastructure, downtown revitalization and quality of place, and this effort reflects confidence in where we are headed,” Oler said in the release. “I appreciate the Chamber’s commitment to transparency and public education as these conversations move forward.”
Before any decisions are made, the Indiana General Assembly must pass legislation authorizing the Indiana Gaming Commission to accept applications for casino licenses in the county. The Chamber is working during this current legislative session, which ends Feb. 27, to ensure lawmakers understand how this opportunity would benefit not just Wayne County but the state as a whole.
The Chamber has contracted with the Indianapolis-based consulting firm, RJL Solutions, to execute a coordinated state advocacy strategy and a local state communications campaign. The budget for RJL’s 12-month contract and expenses is $134,000, in addition to $40,000 to $60,000 of in-kind time that chamber employees are expected to provide for the effort.
More information will be shared through a dedicated website, RichmondIsOnARoll.com, which offers background information, updates and answers to frequently asked questions.
A version of this article appeared in the January 14 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.