The Catawba Indian Nation has confirmed it is in talks with Hard Rock International in Orlando about managing $600 million casino in Kings Mountain.

Lawmakers and citizens have been very outspoken against the project but county leaders said people need the 5,000 jobs the casino would create.

The Catawba Indian Nation wants Hard Rock International to manage the casino on about 40 acres of land off Interstate 85 in Kings Mountain.

It would generate about $300 million in its first year and create several thousands of jobs, according to the tribe.

State lawmakers said it’s not a good fit there and some citizens said it could do more harm than good to families.

In 2013, the tribe asked the federal government for special permission to build there.

Its application is still under review.

Once the application process is complete, the tribe will work with state leaders to advance the project.

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