Artist's rendering of proposed First Light Resort and Casino. Image from Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe
The Bureau of Indian Affairs is holding two public hearings this week to discuss the land-into-trust application submitted by the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts. The first hearing takes place tonight in the town of Mashpee. The tribe wants 170 acres placed in trust for its headquarters and other purposes. The second hearing takes place tomorrow in the town of Taunton. The tribe plans to use 155 acres for the $500 million First Light Resort and Casino. "[W]e want as many Tribal members as possible to attend the hearing, our presence is extremely important," Chairman Cedric Cromwell said in a message. The BIA is also accepting written comments on the environmental impact statement for the application. Get the Story:
Gambling plans under scrutiny (The Cape Cod Times 12/2) Federal Register Notice:
Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Fee-to-Trust Transfer of Property and Subsequent Development of a Resort/Hotel and Tribal Government Facilities by the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe (November 15, 2013) Related Stories:
Mashpee Wampanaog Tribe racks up $70M debt in casino bid (11/25)
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