City to write to BIA on Coquille Tribe's off-reservation casino

Friday, May 3, 2013  

The city council in Medford, Oregon, will send a letter to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, expressing concerns about the Coquille Tribe off-reservation casino.

The city isn't ready to take a position on the project. But council members want to inform Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn of their concerns about the economic impact of the casino.

The tribe plans to open a Class II facility on a 2.42-acre site in the city of Medford. Generally, land acquired after 1988 can't be used for gaming but the Coquilles are seeking an exception in Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act that applies to tribes that were restored to federal recognition.

City Attorney John Huttl said the council is seeking legal advice on the tribe's Section 20 exception.

Get the Story:
Medford council cautious on casino (The Medford Mail Tribune 5/3)

County against Coquille Tribe's bid for off-reservation casino (5/1)