Convergence Strategy Group was retained by St. Tammany Corporation to conduct a Community Impact Study with regard to the potential development of the Camellia Bay Resort Casino and Marina adjacent to Lake Pontchartrain in Slidell.  Evaluated were the potential range of impacts that the large resort casino project could have on Slidell, the surrounding community and St. Tammany Parish in terms of businesses and employment, property values, income levels of residents, crime and public safety, tourism, tax revenues to local government, and social welfare of residents.

CSG independently researched and analyzed data with regard to the impacts that casinos have had on other similar communities across the United States.  Additionally, a thorough review and analysis was conducted of the most recent and relevant academic studies and reports on the impacts of casino gaming on communities nationwide, the validity of these studies and their conclusions were assessed, and applicability to St. Tammany Parish evaluated.

CSG reviewed the proposed plans and projections for the Slidell facility, including visitation and revenue forecasts, overall building program and terms of the Host Agreement as it related to the fiscal impacts and community benefits promises. Each were evaluated in terms of potential quantitative impacts with respect to Slidell and St. Tammany Parish.