Trust land at 1321 North Callow Avenue in Bremerton, Washington. Image from Google Maps
Members of the Samish Nation of Washington say they are generating support for a casino on their off-reservation allotment. The 0.79-acre allotment at 1321 North Callow Avenue in Bremerton was placed in trust for Roberta Law Ross sometime in the 1920s. Her descendants are working with a developer to build a 34,000 square-foot gaming facility at the site. “We’ve always dreamed about the idea of having a casino here,” Kevin Chambers, one of Ross’ great-grandchildren, told The Seattle Times. “We think it would be good for our family, good for the community and good for the city.” The project faces legal uncertainty because the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act requires a tribe to exercise "governmental power" over a potential gaming site. Chambers and his family are members of the Samish Nation, whose headquarters are 144 miles from the allotment. The headquarters of the Suquamish Tribe are closer -- about 24 miles away. The tribe has been issuing permits to the family for a fireworks stand. Ross was a part of the Quinault Nation when she was issued the allotment. A tribal council member told the Times it would be "premature" to discuss a casino at the site. “However, it is important to be aware that only federally recognized tribes are allowed to own and operate casinos under federal law," Larry Ralston told the Times in an e-mail. Get the Story:
Tribal family’s quest to build casino in Bremerton faces hurdles, foes (The Seattle Times 9/16)
Radio Interview: Ron Ragge on Bremerton Casino (Outlaw Radio Network 6/16)
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Descendants want off-reservation casino at Indian allotment (6/16)
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