Representative Pushes Jackson Casino Land Sale
State Representative Chris Bell is urging the Jackson City Council to sell city-owned land to LeFleur Development.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Gambling
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State Representative Chris Bell recently addressed the Jackson City Council to advocate for the sale of 93 acres of city-owned land to LeFleur Development. The land, located within the Pearl River floodplain, is proposed for purchase at a price of $110,000.
Why it matters
Proponents suggest the potential casino resort could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue and create thousands of new jobs. However, the project remains uncertain as the necessary state legislation to permit a casino in Jackson has not been secured.
The proposed project involves the purchase of 93 acres of land for $110,000. It is estimated to attract 4 million visitors annually and create more than 6,722 new jobs.
The players
Chris Bell
He is a State Representative advocating for the development of a casino in Jackson.
LeFleur Development
This is the development firm seeking to purchase city land for a proposed casino resort.
Ashby Foote
He is a member of the Jackson City Council who has questioned the valuation of the land sale.
The details
The Jackson City Council tabled the proposal during an October 6, 2026 meeting, referring the matter to a committee for further discussion. Council Member Ashby Foote specifically questioned the $110,000 price point, which was derived from two appraisals of the floodplain property.
Timeline
March 2026: The Rankin Hinds Pearl River District approved a river plan.
October 6, 2026: The City Council tabled the land sale proposal.
October 19, 2026: Representative Chris Bell addressed the City Council.
Culture Shift
The project follows a pattern set by Mississippi state casino authorization laws. It marks a shift as the development cannot proceed until Representative Chris Bell secures the specific legislative approval required.
Residents may see significant changes to the Pearl River area if the council moves forward with the sale and development. The project's future rests on ongoing council committee discussions and the outcome of required state legislative efforts.
The takeaway
The proposed development hinges on both city land management decisions and the successful passage of state-level gaming legislation. Residents should monitor upcoming city council committee reports to understand the future of the Pearl River floodplain land.
Further reading
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Live Poll
Should city governments prioritize selling public land for private development projects to boost local revenue?
