Public hearings on Mo. casino proposals start today in Cape

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri residents will have a chance this week to weigh in on several proposals for a new casino.

The Missouri Gaming Commission is considering applications from four casino groups competing for the state's last available casino license.

The commission is holding a public hearing today in Cape Girardeau. The one-hour hearing begins at 1 p.m. at the River Campus. Two hearings are planned Tuesday in St. Louis, and a fourth hearing is scheduled Wednesday in the Kansas City suburb of Sugar Creek.

Isle of Capri is proposing a casino for Cape Girardeau. Epic Gaming is backing the Sugar Creek site. Casino Celebration is proposing a facility for St. Louis city, and North County Development wants to place a casino in north St. Louis County.