The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians submitted a proposal to put a gambling operation near Ocean Springs. If voters approve the project, Jackson Count may have a new bingo hall instead of a Vegas-style casino.

Native Americans are allowed to operate two types of gambling: Vegas-style casinos and bingo-based machines. More than a year ago, the Choctaws started seeking approval to turn their manufacturing plant near Interstate 10 into a bingo-based operation.

Now, the tribe has requested the Board of Supervisors to hold a non-biding referendum to determine if residents support an Indian casino. The Department of Interior considers local support a decisive factor in deciding whether to allow a new casino.

The Choctaws owns 23 manufacturing, service, retail and tourism businesses including the Pearl River Resort and its two casinos.