"Something strange is going on in Escambia County, where the Poarch Band of Creek Indians operate a large casino complex.

The Poarch Creeks, the only federally recognized tribe in Alabama, also own casinos in Montgomery and Wetumpka.

The tribe is allowed to have these gambling operations because they are on tribal land that is in what is known as the “federal trust.” This category exempts it from state oversight.

Not only do the Indian casinos make a hefty profit for the tribe, supporters argue, the operations invest millions in road, water and sewage improvements, contribute money to public schools, help fire and police, and employ hundreds of local workers who pay local taxes. However, the tribe does not pay property taxes because of the federal trust status."

Get the Story:
Tribe and error: Killing the goose that laid the golden egg at an Indian casino in Alabama? (The Anniston Star 4/25)

Another Opinion:
Lowell McGill: PCI situation complicated (The Atmore Advance 4/25)

Also Today:
Commission, PCI dispute over taxes continues (The Brewton Standard 4/25)
‘The door is open’ (The Atmore Advance 4/25)

Related Stories:
Lawmaker urges county to question Poarch Creek casinos (4/23)