Unlike the other proposals for casino and racetrack gambling in Maine, the plan by Seth Carey of Rumford is long on promises, but short on details. For his plan to gain any traction with voters this fall, Carey must start divulging his business model.

Next week, lawmakers will review legislation permitting an Oxford County casino, a perfunctory step given its certification as a citizen initiative by the Maine Secretary of State’s Office in late February. Nobody, not even Carey, is thinking it will pass.

Nor should it, regardless of the November vote. Besides a lengthy – “larded,” in the opinion of critics – bill detailing the various benefactors of gambling revenue, everything regarding the actual casino remains an unsettling unknown.

We know it will be placed in Oxford County. But specifically where, and whether Carey has an option on a parcel of property, are undecided. On Monday, he spoke of meeting with investors, but their identity and background are still guarded.

In short, it appears Maine must take his word on the casino, its benefit to the state and its revitalization of the western Maine economy. With all due respect to Carey, this state and its people need much more than reassurances and promises.

The other casino proposals – Sanford, Bangor, Calais, Indian Island – have all been detailed and clear. Lawmakers and voters knew what they were considering, and had enough information on which to base an informed decision.

That two of the last three statewide referenda on casino gambling have failed shows Mainers are skeptical about these facilities. Carey’s lack of information about his casino should do little to change minds, and instead reinforce doubt about his convictions.

So far, Carey has been upfront about his altruistic aims for his casino. He legitimately views it as an economic transformation for the River Valley (if this is where it is sited), which is in an uncomfortable transition from its natural resource-based economy.

We cannot fault his rhetoric. But somebody who could have a controversial $90 million industry – according to economic projections from University of Maine Professor Todd Gabe – in his hands come November must be more forthcoming about his details.

Maine cannot and should not take Carey’s word for it.