Osage Nation Moves Forward With $100M Lake Ozark Casino Plan

A major development proposal is moving forward in Lake Ozark, where Osage Nation is working to establish a $100 million casino and entertainment district. The project would sit near Osage Beach Parkway and Bagnell Dam Boulevard and would include a hotel, casino floor, restaurants, and live entertainment spaces.

Good to Know

• The land must be placed into federal trust for gaming to operate
• Lake Ozark is negotiating cost-sharing for public services
• City officials view the project as a long-term economic boost

Osage Nation is currently working with federal authorities to place the land for the project into trust status. If approved, the trust designation would authorize casino operations on the site. The proposal has been under discussion for more than a year and represents one of the most ambitious hospitality developments planned in the region.

Lake Ozark Mayor David Ridgely described ongoing collaboration between the city and tribal leadership. He noted that the development will rely on city water, sewer, law enforcement, and road access, meaning formal agreements are necessary to ensure cost coverage.

Ridgely said:

“Our goal is to make sure the City of Lake Ozark comes out ahead. They have been working toward that goal with us as well.”

He added that working discussions have been positive:

“They were very great to work with.”

Revenue Considerations for the City

The Board of Aldermen is reviewing two ordinances that would require Osage Nation to contribute toward public service costs tied to the project. Ridgely explained that the revenue generated from the agreements could potentially double the general fund.

He said this growth could support infrastructure upgrades, road improvements, and other local needs:

“There are a lot of different things we are working on to try and make the City of Lake Ozark better for our citizens.”

Approvals, trust process steps, and additional permitting remain ahead, but Ridgely expressed confidence in the partnership. He said:

“All of the communities that I see Osage Nation go into, they are good partners in the future. So we are looking forward to that type of relationship.”

The Board of Aldermen will vote on the ordinances next week, with Osage Nation representatives expected to attend the meeting.

FAQ

What is the estimated cost of the project?

The development is estimated at $100 million.

Why does the land need to be placed into trust?

Trust status is required for the tribe to legally offer casino gaming on the site.

Will the city receive revenue from the project?

Yes, through cost-sharing agreements for public services.

What will the development include?

Plans call for a casino, hotel, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

When could construction begin?

No timeline has been confirmed and depends on federal and local approvals.

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