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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Santee Development Corporation?
The Santee Development Corporation is a wholly owned South Carolina company led by Wallace Cheves that is exploring a private investment plan in one of the state’s most economically underserved areas.
What is the proposed project?
The proposal is to develop a world-class, billion-dollar destination resort and casino in Santee, South Carolina. The project has the potential to be the largest economic development initiative in the state’s history that is entirely privately funded with no taxpayer incentives. The resort would feature gaming facilities, a hotel, restaurants, entertainment venues, and a spa, bringing hundreds of millions of dollars in investment and tax revenue to South Carolina while significantly boosting the local economy.
Where will it be located?
The proposed casino would be built in Santee, South Carolina, within Orangeburg County, at the old, abandoned Santee Outlet Mall site along I-95. This would turn a dilapidated tract of land into a national destination resort and economic powerhouse.
Is gambling currently legal in South Carolina?
No, casino gambling is currently illegal in South Carolina. The project would require changes in state law, specifically the passage of South Carolina House Bill 4176, which would allow a single casino to open in an economically distressed area of the state.
Who is funding this project, and will you fully disclose all investors and revenue-sharing agreements?
The Santee Development Corporation is wholly owned by native South Carolinian Wallace Cheves. The Santee Development Corporation is committed to transparency and regulatory compliance and will follow all legal disclosure requirements regarding funding sources and revenue-sharing agreements. SDC is committed to not requesting any tax incentives from the government at any level.
How will this casino benefit residents in the I-95 Corridor?
The project would transform the region long known as the “Corridor of Shame” into a true Corridor of Opportunity. By bringing a billion-dollar destination resort to Santee, it would create thousands of new jobs and drive major economic revitalization throughout the area. For the I-95 Corridor, this development could be as transformative as BMW was for the Upstate or Boeing for the Lowcountry.
What types of jobs would the project create?
The casino would create jobs in hospitality, gaming operations, security, management, retail, and entertainment, among other fields.
Will this negatively impact small businesses in Orangeburg?
Local businesses will be among the first to benefit. The casino will enhance the local economy by attracting tourism, increasing foot traffic, and creating new business opportunities. We are committed to working with local business owners to ensure they benefit from this development.
How will it impact traffic and infrastructure in Santee?
A full traffic and infrastructure impact study will be conducted as part of the development process. Plans for road improvements and enhancements to accommodate increased visitors would be considered.
Will there be community engagement before the project is approved?
Yes, public meetings and discussions with community leaders are an important part of the process to ensure local residents have a voice in the project and are fully informed in every step of the process.
What is your response to opposition from religious leaders and lawmakers?
We fully respect the concerns expressed by religious leaders and lawmakers and welcome thoughtful dialogue on this issue. Our commitment is to operate with integrity, transparency, and responsibility. With strong regulations and responsible gaming measures in place, we believe this project can be a force for good, lifting residents out of generational poverty and creating new opportunities in a region that has long been underserved.
What measures will be in place to prevent crime and illegal activities associated with gambling?
We will implement strict security measures, including surveillance, law enforcement partnerships, and anti-money laundering protocols. Our goal is to create a safe and secure environment for all guests and employees.
How will you address concerns about gambling addiction and social harm?
We are fully committed to promoting responsible gaming and ensuring strong safeguards are in place—at a minimum, on par with those associated with the South Carolina Education Lottery. This includes implementing self-exclusion programs, funding public awareness campaigns, and partnering with organizations that support individuals struggling with problem gambling. Our goal is to create a premier entertainment destination while prioritizing the well-being of our guests and the broader community.
How do you respond to concerns about political corruption and the influence of the gambling industry?
We believe in full transparency and adherence to all ethical and legal standards. Our focus is on creating a legitimate, well-regulated business that benefits the community, rather than engaging in any questionable political practices.
