(RALEIGH) -- Negotiations are ongoing between Gov. Beverly Perdue, legislative leaders and the Eastern Band of Cherokee on a pact that would allow casino-style gambling at a resort owned by the tribe. If the deal is approved, it could bring hundreds of jobs to one of the poorer regions of the state.
Representatives from Perdue's office and Republican lawmakers confirmed there are ongoing discussions with the tribe to allow live table games such as blackjack and poker. The agreement would most likely impact operations at the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino in Jackson County. Blackjack-like games are currently in operation, but visitors must play them on computers.

The facility, which was originally limited to bingo games when it opened in 1997, has grown into a large resort that includes 120,000 square feet of gaming space, shops, restaurants, hotels and a 15,000 square foot conference center.  The casino also plans to open additional facilities in 2012.

Perdue spokeswoman Chris Mackey said the governor is considering the idea because of the potential impact it would have on job creation. She noted the economic boost that the casino generated when it first opened.

“There were new hotels, new restaurants and businesses that meant jobs all around Cherokee and I think the idea is that something like that could happen again,” said Mackey. “That’s good for North Carolina and it’s certainly good for western North Carolina.”

Rep. Roger West, R-Cherokee, said he’s been told by tribal officials that live gaming could generate at least 300-400 new jobs. He said that figure could even increase to as high as 600 new positions, depending on the final arrangement.

Rules that govern a special legislative session in September would allow lawmakers to ratify any tribal agreements that are negotiated by the governor. However, House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, said he doesn’t expect the issue will be taken up at that time. Instead, he said the tribal agreement will likely come up during another special session before the so-called “short session” in May 2012.

GOP supporters acknowledged that one potential hurdle in approving any live gaming agreement will be convincing social conservatives. “It is an issue with some people. They feel like they’re promoting gaming,” said West. “It probably would be a tough vote for some people in the legislature. I’m quite sure it would be.”

“The challenge that we have in front of us is to balance the concerns some have that are against gambling with the reality that this could create several hundred jobs and replace computers with people,” said Tillis.

Republican leaders said it’s unclear whether expanding gambling operations at the Harrah’s casino could result in some kind of revenue-sharing agreement with the state. Mackey also said she wasn’t aware if those discussions had occurred.

A recent study released by the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School found that Harrah’s casino annually contributes more than $380 million to its local economy. The report, which was commissioned by the tribe, also credited gaming with having a positive impact on social, educational and cultural programs.

"The results demonstrate that gaming has been good for the tribe, for western North Carolina and for the state," Eastern Band Principal Chief Michell Hicks said in a press release. "It also shows the tribe has been a good steward of the proceeds, investing in our community and region in ways that enhance our economic and social health and vitality."

Representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians did not respond to multiple requests for comment on the tribe’s efforts to pursue live table games at its casino.