Artist's rendering of the proposed West Valley Resort. Image from Tohono O'odham Nation.
The Tohono O'odham Nation of Arizona has won yet another decision its quest to build an off-reservation casino. Judge David Campbell said the Class III gaming compact does not bar a casino in the Phoenix area. Public statements made by tribal leaders that might have implied otherwise do not matter, he determined. "The compact between the state and the nation is fully integrated. It does not contain a ban on new casinos in the Phoenix area, and its terms cannot reasonably be read to include such a ban," Campbell wrote in the nine-page decision. The state of Arizona, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the Gila River Indian Community are expected to appeal. Get the Story:
Another ruling gives O'odham OK to build casino in Glendale (Capitol Media Services 6/26)
Ruling could clear way for a Glendale-area casino (AP 6/26)
Tribe closer to West Valley casino after ruling (The Arizona Republic 6/26) District Court Decision:
Arizona v. Tohono O'odham Nation (June 25, 2013) Related Stories:
Tohono O'odham Nation awaits decision in casino litigation (06/13)
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