Tribal Gaming Industry Updates
In California, a land dispute between two tribes in Solano County has become a point of contention. The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians wants to build a casino on a piece of land located 45 minutes north of San Francisco. The Trump administration initially denied the request in 2019, but a federal judge overturned that decision in 2022. The Biden Administration is now revisiting the issue, bringing the situation to the forefront once again.
Yocha Dehe Tribal Chairman Anthony Roberts expressed his concerns, stating that it is disrespectful for a tribe from over 90 miles away to develop something on their homeland. The dispute highlights the complexities of tribal land management and the challenges faced by tribes seeking economic opportunities through gambling projects.
Meanwhile, a former New York City executive is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to reject Mohegan Gaming’s application for a downstate casino license. The plea comes after the tragic death of the executive’s son at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut due to alleged neglect by casino staff. The joint bid by Mohegan Gaming and the Soloviev Group for a $4 billion casino complex near the United Nations complex is under scrutiny following the incident.
In Omaha, Nebraska, the Winnebago Tribe’s WarHorse Casino is set to open on August 6 and operate 24/7. The casino received unanimous approval from the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, marking a significant milestone for the tribe. WarHorse CEO Lance Morgan expressed his excitement about the long-awaited opening and the opportunities it will bring to the community.
On the West Coast, Bear River Casino Resort in California unveiled new additions, including a poker room, event space, restaurant, and ballroom. The upgrades aim to enhance the overall guest experience and provide a variety of entertainment options. The addition of a poker room has been well-received by patrons, with regular tournaments scheduled throughout the week.
Looking ahead, Muscogee Nation Gaming Enterprises is gearing up to break ground on a $100 million casino development in Coweta, Oklahoma, in September. The project is expected to feature 750 slots, a 46-room hotel, a restaurant, and a pool, catering to both local residents and tourists. The tribe’s commitment to economic development through gaming initiatives continues to drive growth and prosperity within the community.
In a recent announcement, FanDuel’s E. Sequoyah Simermeyer was named to the National Native American Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors. Simermeyer, a former chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the board. The appointment reflects the board’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of contemporary Native leaders across various industries.
