Direct Summary:
In August 2025, the Long Beach Board of Aldermen voted 4-2 to continue pursuing the proposed casino project at the city’s harbor. The close vote reflects ongoing debate over economic potential versus environmental, social, and logistical concerns voiced by residents and local officials.
“The decision to continue negotiations opens a chapter filled with promise, but also profound community questions.”
Introduction
Long Beach, Mississippi, is on the cusp of a major transformation as city officials consider the addition of its first casino on the Gulf Coast. The proposed development, nearly a decade in discussion, has recently shifted focus to the harbor area, a location beloved by residents but also fraught with environmental and logistical complexity. This article explores the background, vote details, community perspectives, and pragmatic considerations shaping Long Beach’s casino future.
“The harbor isn’t just a place — it’s a symbol of Long Beach’s identity and economic ambitions alike.”
Image 1: Long Beach Harbor at Sunset
Title: Long Beach Harbor – The Heart of the Community
The Casino Proposal’s Evolution
Originally, the casino was planned near the former Kmart site across Beach Boulevard/US 90. However, developers led by local businessman Jim Parrish revised plans to place the casino fully south of Highway 90 at Long Beach Harbor, an area currently occupied by Parrish’s Restaurant and near the Yacht Club.
Learn more about the Long Beach casino plans targeting the harbor.
Key project features include:
- A 300-room hotel
- Approximately 40,000 square feet of casino space with slot machines and table games
- An initial $500,000 annual rent to the city for five years, then 1% gross gaming revenue thereafter
Developers contend the casino would catalyze economic growth, generate jobs, and produce valuable tax revenues.
August 2025 Vote: Board of Aldermen Divided
On August 20, 2025, the six-member Long Beach Board of Aldermen voted 4-2 to continue pursuit of the harbor casino project despite unresolved questions about boat parking, traffic, and environmental impacts.
See details at CDC Gaming news.
Voting Yes (to continue negotiations):
- Mayor Glen Powell
- Alderman At Large Donald Frazer
- Ward 2 Alderman Bernie Parker
- Ward 4 Alderman Skip Elsworth
Voting No:
- Ward 1 Alderman Patrick Bennett
- Ward 3 Alderman Angela Johnson
The majority expressed cautious optimism but urged that key community and logistical concerns must be addressed before approving a lease. For more see WXXV coverage.
Image 2: Long Beach Board of Aldermen Meeting
Title: Long Beach Board of Aldermen Considers Casino Lease
Community Response and Concerns
Public forums and resident feedback reveal a mix of support and apprehension. Concerns notably include:
- Environmental risks: Potential harm to sensitive harbor ecology, including water quality and wildlife disruption
- Marina and boating logistics: Proposed relocation of boat parking near the Yacht Club generates opposition from boating community members
- Traffic and infrastructure stress: Fear that increased visitors and casino traffic would overwhelm existing roads and local services
- Preserving community character: Many residents worry the casino might bring crime, gambling addiction, and drastic social changes
- Questioning economic equity: Skepticism about who ultimately benefits financially from the casino’s operation
Supporters emphasize the potential for increased jobs and revenues as vital for stabilizing and growing Long Beach’s economy.
Path Forward: Addressing the Issues
With the vote to pursue preliminary lease negotiations, city officials are committed to working closely with developers and stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues:
- Designing adequate parking and traffic management plans
- Mitigating environmental impact through thorough assessments and protective measures
- Engaging public input in future decision-making stages
- Planning social services addressing potential casino-related challenges
- Coordinating with the Mississippi Gaming Commission for regulatory approval
This collaborative approach aims to balance economic opportunity with safeguarding Long Beach’s harbor and community well-being.
Highlights
“This is a pivotal moment where economic potential and community preservation must go hand in hand.”
“The harbor is the soul of Long Beach—it deserves thoughtful stewardship.”
“Leaders must ensure residents’ voices shape the future amid ambitious projects.”
