Developer doesn't want tribes in Massachusetts casino suit

Wednesday, January 30, 2013  

A non-Indian developer says the two federally recognized tribes in Massachusetts shouldn't be allowed to join a gaming case.

K.G. Urban Enterprises said the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe isn't close to gaining approval for its casino. The firm also said the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe is trying to re-litigate its 1987 land claim settlement.

KG Urban wants to bid on a casino in southeastern Massachusetts. But H.3702, the state's gaming law, gives priority to "a federally recognized tribe."

The Mashpees expect to win approval for the casino. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has promised to make a decision on the tribe's land-into-trust application this spring.

The Aquinnahs have been locked out of the process. The state contends the land claim settlement bars the tribe from engaging in gaming.

Get the Story:
Casino developer fights back against tribes (The New Bedford Standard-Times 1/30)

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe makes case for casino land bid (1/28)