Biloxi Planning Commission approves Black Marlin Casino plans
The Biloxi Planning Commission approved the master plan, zoning change, and tree removal for the Black Marlin Casino project.Summary
The Biloxi Planning Commission unanimously approved the master plan, a required zoning change, and the removal of 28 protected trees for a new casino project named the Black Marlin. Proposed by RW Development and led by John Stewart of Encompass, the project is a 119,000-square-foot development on Veterans Avenue featuring hotel, food, retail, and gaming spaces. A zoning change for three properties facing McDonnell Road was necessary to comply with the city's Planned Development Gaming Establishment ordinance. Despite opposition from the Coastal Live Oak Project to remove 25 live oaks, the commission approved the tree removal based on an arborist's report indicating most trees were in poor health. As mitigation, the developer must plant 209 new trees, contribute to the city tree fund, or do both. The approved plans now proceed to the city council for final consideration.
(Source：Wlox News)