Canal Fulton rejects casino: Council split on whether to pursue gaming resort; vocal protesters rally outside.

Byline: Rick Armon

May 23--CANAL FULTON -- The city apparently isn't ready to gamble on a casino resort.

The City Council on Monday night voted 3-2 in favor of entering into negotiations with the Eastern Shawnee tribe of Oklahoma to bring a casino to Canal Fulton, but the legislation failed because it needed four votes for approval.

Some called the result a lost opportunity. Others applauded the defeat, including sign-waving and chanting protesters.

The Eastern Shawnee and developer Steve DiPietro had proposed building a resort with gaming, shopping, restaurants, a hotel, a concert venue and possibly a water park on private property along …