Officials in Niagara Falls, New York, don't feel optimistic about receiving their share of gaming revenues from the Seneca Nation anytime soon.

The tribe has withheld an estimated $400 million, accusing the state of allowing an expansion of non-Indian gaming. Local communities are hurting without the casino cash.

"We’re in a tough, tough situation," a Niagara Falls council member said at a public meeting, The Niagara Gazette reported.

The tribe and the state have agreed to enter in to arbitration over the dispute but it could take a year to resolve, another council member said. The state is pushing for a quick resolution.

In recent weeks, council members have met with Seneca President Robert Odawi Porter, state lawmakers and representatives of Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), who supports an expansion of non-Indian gaming.

Get the Story:
Falls in 'a bad spot' when it comes to casino cash (The Niagara Gazette 5/1)

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