"Today -- fittingly in Shakopee, named for a Dakota chief -- the Minnesota Racing Commission will consider whether to approve a chance for a positive turn in this state's relationships with its native tribes.

At the same time, the commission can contribute to the resurgence of the state's thoroughbred horse industry and settle a 15-year-old squabble at the State Capitol.

That's the big-picture significance of the business deal announced last week between Canterbury Park racetrack and operators of Mystic Lake casino, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.

The Racing Commission ought to be thorough in evaluating whether this deal serves the public interest. It should ensure that the arrangement, which involves the Mdewakanton Sioux paying $75 million over 10 years to Canterbury to bolster racing purses, does nothing to damage the integrity of the racing and card games offered at the track."

Get the Story:
Editorial: A promising deal for Canterbury, tribe (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 6/13)

Related Stories:
Column: Shakopee Tribe racetrack deal a benefit to entire state (6/7)