Leaders of the Shinnecock Nation of New York hope to open a casino once the tribe gains federal recognition but a difference of opinion might affect the debate.

At a recent gaming conference, trustee Fred Bess said the tribe will consider any location in the state for a casino as long as it maximizes profits. That could include a race track near New York City.

Former trustee Lance Gumbs wants to stick to a site near the tribe's reservation on Long Island. But for now, he is on the sidelines because he lost his bid for re-election.

"We started this for jobs for our people," Gumbs told The East Hampton Press. "It was supposed to be a place where Shinnecock people could work and have good-paying jobs. There are some real bad examples out there of what just giving handouts to tribe members will do."

The Bureau of Indian Affairs agreed to issue a preliminary decision on the tribe in December. A final decision is expected in mid-2010.

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Tribe leaders split on casino path (The East Hampton Press 7/8)