Oxford's Board of Selectmen has unanimously endorsed a proposal to build a resort and casino in the western Maine town. The project is being proposed by a group called Black Bear Entertainment LLC, which is gathering signatures in hopes of getting the issue on the ballot next year.

The board voted 5 to 0 last night to support the proposal. Black Bear officials say the vote is an indication that the region is eager for an economic boost. "The Selectmen's vote was a very loud thumbs up for jobs creation, and it speaks to the extraordinary economic times in which the state of Maine finds itself," says Black Bear investor Rupert Grover in a statement.

Another proposal to build a casino in Oxford County was defeated by voters last year.