An agreement between the Cowlitz Tribe and Clark County, Washington, was debated Tuesday night.

The memorandum of understanding would govern how the tribe uses 152 acres of land it seeks to place into trust. The tribe is thinking about putting a casino there and is offering to pay the county for law enforcement. The tribe would cede criminal and civil jurisdiction until a tribal court is established.

Some speakers, including local card clubs that would compete with a casino, told county commissioners they opposed the deal. But local officials support it.

The tribe gained final federal recognition in 2000 during the Clinton administration.

Get the Story:
County delays decision on tribal deal (The Oregonian 2/11)

Relevant Links:
Cowlitz Tribe - http://www.cowlitz.org

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Republican Indians form coalition to re-elect Bush (02/09)
Cowlitz Tribe prepares land-into-trust documents (10/16)
Cowlitz Tribe seeks land-use agreement with county (09/05)