Missouri voters will soon decide on Amendment 5, which proposes the addition of a new casino on the Osage River near the Bagnell Dam at the Lake of the Ozarks. If passed, this amendment would amend the state constitution, allowing the Osage River as a permitted casino location and distributing a 14th casino license. Proponents, including Lake Ozark Mayor Dennis Newberry and the Osage River Gaming & Convention Committee, highlight potential economic benefits such as an estimated $2.5 million boost to the city’s revenue and approximately $14.4 million in annual state gaming tax revenue directed toward early childhood literacy. Supporters argue that a casino could diversify tourism, create up to 800 permanent jobs, and provide year-round employment in an area heavily reliant on seasonal tourism.
However, local opposition remains strong. Longtime resident and retired business owner Joe Roeger voiced concerns that a casino could negatively impact small, local businesses unable to compete with subsidized casino prices, potentially harming existing restaurants and shops. Skeptics like Roeger are doubtful that the promised hotel, convention center, and other amenities will come to fruition or draw significant new visitors. Additionally, opponents worry that the local workforce, already strained, would be further impacted as the casino would absorb current workers, posing challenges for existing establishments.