The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation filed an application to put land in trust in Pasco, Washington. As a result, the tribe has taken the first step toward establishing a tribal casino on its grounds. However, the road to establishing a tribal casino is a long one. The tribe’s application to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is the first step in a 16-step federal procedure that began in 2019.
If the BIA approves the tribe’s application, the proposed casino could potentially offer sports betting options to its patrons in addition to traditional casino games. It is important to note that Washington sports betting is only offered at tribal casinos and is not yet available at non-tribal establishments.
Currently, the tribe operates three other casinos in Washington under the “12 Tribes” brand at Lake Chelan, Omak, and Coulee Dam.
What It Takes to Establish a Tribal Casino in Washington
Establishing a tribal casino in Pasco, Washington would involve several steps and considerations. Here are some general guidelines:
- Determine eligibility: To establish a tribal casino, the tribe must be recognized by the federal government and have a reservation or other designated lands that are eligible for gaming.
- Consult with local and state authorities: Before pursuing a casino project, it is important to consult with local and state authorities to ensure compliance with zoning and other regulations.
- Conduct a feasibility study: A feasibility study can help determine the potential success of a casino project in Pasco, including factors such as market demand, competition, and financial projections. This would require a team of professionals such as architects, engineers, financial analysts, and attorneys.
- Develop a business plan: Based on the results of the feasibility study, a detailed business plan should be developed that outlines the goals, strategies, and financing for the project. This would involve identifying potential investors and partners, negotiating contracts, and obtaining financing.
- Obtain approvals and permits: Once the business plan is in place, the tribe would need to obtain various approvals and permits from local, state, and federal agencies, including the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), which regulates tribal gaming. This process can be complex and lengthy and may involve environmental assessments and other studies.
- Build and operate the casino: If all approvals and permits are granted, the tribe can begin constructing the casino and other associated facilities. This would involve hiring contractors, managing construction, and ensuring compliance with all regulations. Once the casino is built, it would need to be operated in accordance with tribal and NIGC regulations.
Because the land is intended for a gaming facility, additional processes are also required by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Department of the Interior (DOI). The process can take several years and involve various challenges, but can provide economic benefits for the tribe and the local community if successful.
The City Supports the Idea
Pasco Mayor Blanche Barajas confirmed the city’s support for the tribe’s vision in a letter.
“We enthusiastically support the Tribes’ Pasco Project and will continue to express that support whenever possible. We look forward to the success of the Tribes’ work to transfer its property here into trust status, the first step in making this exciting project a reality.”
*Bookmakers Review will continue to follow the developments.
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