The Russellville Planning Commission last night approved a development plan for the Cherokee Nation’s Legends Resort and Casino.

It’s perhaps some indication that resistance to a casino in Pope County isn’t as fierce as it once was. Legends has a permit, but some court cases remain to be decided and opponents of the casino have submitted petitions for a statewide vote on revoking the authorization of a Pope County casino.

Meanwhile, the Cherokee Nation is emphasizing the positive..

“Pope County deserves a casino resort destination that is truly unmatched and that visitors from across the region and state will enjoy. Receiving unanimous approval from the Russellville Planning Commission on the large-scale development plan for Legends Resort & Casino marks another exciting milestone in this process.”