The Coquille Tribe of Oregon says its second casino will only offer Class II gaming.

The tribe recently acquired properties in Medford for the proposed casino. The plan has stirred controversy but a spokesperson was confident about its success because the Class III gaming compact would not be affected.

"Coquille Tribe's proposal for a place to offer Class 2 gaming in Medford is really within the legal aspects of both the restoration act and the compact with the state, so in that regard the Tribe feels very confident that it not only can do this, but it will do this as soon as possible," spokesperson Ray Doering told KCBY-TV.

The tribe was restored to federal recognition through an act of Congress in 1989. The Coquille Restoration Act states that the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 "shall" apply to the tribe.

Another section states that the BIA "shall" accept up to 1,000 acres in trust for the tribe. Additional acquisitions beyond that limit will be processed under the IRA, according to the law.

The tribe already operates the Mill Casino in North Bend, over three hours driving distance from Medford.

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians is threatening litigation if the second Coquille casino is approved.

Get the Story:
Umpqua Tribe threatens legal action (KCBY-TV 10/11)
Court challenge likely in casino development process, tribal leaders say (The Medford Mail-Tribune 10/5)

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City concerned about Coquille Tribe's plan for second casino (9/21)