Report finds big economic impact of Eastern Cherokee casino

Monday, June 27, 2011  

The casino owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians poured $328 million into the local economy in North Carolina, according to a report commissioned by the tribe.

The Harrah's Cherokee Casino attracts 3.6 million people to the reservation a year. Revenue peaked at $449 million in 2007 and reached $386 million in 2010, according to the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

"The results demonstrate that gaming has been good for the tribe, for western North Carolina and for the state," Chief Michell Hicks said in a statement, WRAL-TV reported "It also shows the tribe has been a good steward of the proceeds, investing in our community and region in ways that enhance our economic and social health and vitality."

The casino employs 5 percent of the local workforce and contributes to 8 percent of wages and salaries, the report said.

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Study: Casino pumps $380M into Cherokee economy (WRAL-TV 6/27)