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Slot machines are still illegal in Alabama, but that has not stopped tribes within the state from exercising their right to operate casinos.  The Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ just spent $240 million on their Wind Creek Casino and Hotel.  This marks the tribes first adventure into the casino business.

The tribe offers electronic gaming, although they do not have the luxury of slot machines.  Slot machines are the work horse and most steady stream of revenue for most brick and mortar casinos.  So far Wind Creek Casino and Hotel only offers Class II gaming and a few restaurants; the hotel portion is scheduled to open later this month.

PCI Gaming is helping the Poarch Creek officials manage the casino.

“Our research shows us that some 8.8 million visitors from Alabama and Florida visited Mississippi casinos in 2007,” said Jay Dorris, president and CEO of PCI Gaming.

“We just want to invite them to come check our electronic machines, our better facilities, better staff and the better way we will take care of them. We open Jan. 6, but will have a grand opening Jan. 31. We hope things will be going so well we may be able to announce an expansion at that time.”

Tribal councilman David Gehman said of the casino, “Our performance so far has been stunning.”

Gehman admits that he was initially against borrowing $150 million to build the casino but is now completely on board.  Projections show that if the casino continues to perform as well as it has they will be able to repay all debts within three to five years; an amazing performance for a casino without slot machines.

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