STATEHOUSE (Nov. 5, 2025) – Recently, a report from the Indiana Gaming Commission identified Auburn as one of two potential locations for a casino relocation within the state, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).
The report examined four potential locations across Indiana and found a site near Interstate 69 and State Road 8 in Auburn ranked among the top options for a casino, with downtown Indianapolis identified as the most profitable option.
"While this report has generated discussion across the community, I want to be clear – I am not aware of any formal proposal or organized effort to locate a casino in Auburn," Smaltz said. "If this were something the community wanted to pursue, an independent review should be conducted to assess potential social, traffic and infrastructure impacts to the community."
However, Smaltz emphasized that casino relocation can also bring challenges.
"Research has shown that expanded gambling access can lead to higher rates of addiction, financial hardship, family strain and, in some cases, public safety concerns," Smaltz said.
Smaltz noted that Indiana is already the seventh largest gaming state in the nation, with a well-established and heavily regulated industry that generates hundreds of millions of dollars annually in state and local tax revenue that supports community programs. Casinos across Indiana are required to operate as responsible community partners, contributing millions of dollars each year to their host communities for public safety, infrastructure and other local priorities.
"We must be cautious and thoughtful of our constituents before moving forward," Smaltz said.
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State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) represents House District 52,
which includes all of DeKalb County, and portions of Noble and Steuben counties.
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