New Mexico tribes ask governor to discuss gaming compacts

Monday, March 17, 2014  

Two tribes are asking New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez (R) to negotiate Class III gaming compacts.

Zuni Pueblo and Jemez Pueblo don't currently operate casinos. But both tribes have had preliminary discussions with the governor's office, The Albuquerque Journal reported.

“It’s not to say we’re going to have a casino tomorrow morning somewhere on our reservation. It’s going to be a long process,” Zuni Gov. Arlen Quetawki, Sr. told the paper. “We just decided it’s time to start considering that.”

The tribe is due to acquire off-reservation land near a major interstate. Quetawki said it's possible that a casino could be built there.

Jemez Pueblo previously pursued an off-reservation casino in the southern part of the state but withdrew the project last year due to obstacles.

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Two tribes reach out to Gov. Martinez over possible casinos (The Albuquerque Journal 3/16)