White Earth Band wins casino property tax case

Tuesday, April 14, 2009  

The White Earth Band of Ojibwe Indians does not have to pay property taxes on its casino, a federal judge ruled.

The tribe opened the Shooting Star Casino on land that was acquired through the White Earth Land Settlement Act. Judge Michael J. Davis said the law protected the tribe's property.

The tribe sought damages for past taxes paid to Mahnomen County but Davis said the county was protected by the state's sovereign immunity. The tribe paid $9.7 million to the county.

Get the Story:
Judge: Casino is not subject to property taxes (The Worthington Daily Globe 4/13)