Editorial: A long fight over Tohono O'odham Nation casino plan


Artist's rendering of the proposed West Valley Resort. Image from Tohono O'odham Nation

Arizona newspaper doesn't think the battle over the Tohono O'odham Nation off-reservation casino will be over any time soon:
We have said before that the current system, in which gambling is limited to several reservation sites, is working pretty well. More extensive gaming operations, favored by some non-Indian interests, would have some economic benefits but also would cause more problems. The current system has benefited the tribes, and some revenues are shared with local governments and nonprofit entities.

For those reasons, changing the compact would be a bad idea. Glendale seems to be opening the door because of potential benefits to the city, a concept that could lead to overextension of casinos if everyone wants to get a piece of the action.

Glendale has agreed to talk, but many obstacles remain for the Tohono O’odham goal. And Glendale still is officially opposed to the plan. Federal legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Trent Franks would block more casinos in the Valley until 2027.

This story is likely to linger.

Get the Story:
Editorial: Glendale casino fight (The Casa Grande Dispatch 3/20)

Also Today:
Glendale agrees to negotiate with Tohono O’odham Nation (The Peoria Times 3/19)
Glendale City Council Begins Formal Casino Negotiations With Tohono O'odham Nation (The Phoenix News-Times 3/20)

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Tohono O'odham Nation negotiates for off-reservation casino (3/19)

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