Editorial: No logic in putting Cowlitz Tribe's gaming site in trust

On multiple levels, the Cowlitz Tribe's push to build a casino in Clark County fails the tests of logic and reason, and last week's decision by the Department of the Interior is an egregious violation of those simple standards of debate. Throughout the process, Cowlitz leaders have attempted to alter their tribe's own history for the purpose of placing a casino as close to Portland as possible, hoping to prove that economics and greed can, indeed, override the facts.

In that regard, we can't blame them. If officials believe that placing a casino within 20 miles of the Portland market will benefit tribal members, it is in the best interest of the Cowlitz to make such an effort. But the complicity of the federal government in this case is outrageous, and the latest move of placing the land into trust ahead of any court ruling is an indefensible case of jumping the gun.

As The Columbian long has argued editorially, the question for local residents isn't about expanding entertainment opportunities in the region or appeasing a tribe that professes to have historical ties to Clark County. Instead, the issue revolves around the quality of life in the region and what is best for local residents and their communities. The net negative impact on public education resources, local law enforcement, social services and infrastructure would grossly outweigh the benefits provided by jobs and economic activity at the casino.