The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of North Carolina will announce details of a deal with Wal-Mart "within weeks," Principal Chief Michell Hicks said.
Hicks said a Wal-Mart on the reservation will generate tax revenues and jobs. The tribe has a 7 percent sales tax.
But some tribal members aren't convinced Wal-Mart is good for the community. They want the tribe to hold a referendum on the issue.
"I don’t think Wal-Mart fits our profile," Natalie Smith told The Smoky Mountain News. "This town has always relied upon tourism, and I think they’d be disappointed to find Wal-Mart."
Get the Story:
Cherokee contemplates Wal-Mart’s impact
(The Smoky Mountain News 5/16)
Relevant Links:
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians -
http://www.cherokee-nc.comEastern
Band of Cherokee Indians, site 2 -
http://www.nc-cherokee.comEastern
Band of Cherokee Indians, unofficial -
http://www.easternband.com
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