The economic and administrative impacts of riverboat gaming on a small community : Rising Sun, Indiana

This case study presents a comprehensive discussion of economic and administrative impacts of riverboat gaming on a small city, Rising Sun, Indiana. The history of gaming is traced in the United States, Indiana, and Rising Sun. Evidence suggests that most of the impacts in Rising Sun have been positive financially. It allows for upgraded infrastructure, new city building construction and improved community services. Two foundations have been created to help surrounding communities and Rising Sun, as well as an unique revenue sharing plan that encompasses counties and cities beyond Rising Sun and Ohio County. The study also determines that the riverboat casino has not helped existing businesses in the community, and that "economic development" of those businesses has not flourished because of the gaming casino. Administratively, this study does suggest that the casino's revenues and presence has affected changes in the town's leadership, as well as small increases in crime and other social impacts.Department of Political ScienceThesis (M.P.A.