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SEPTEMBER 19, 2000

Speaking at a retreat at the Oneida Nation casino in New York, Kevin Gover, head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, advised private developers wishing to open casinos in the state to be patient.

At least three developers are vying for a casino in the Catskills. But Gover said its unrealistic for any of them, particularly Park Place Entertainment, to expect speedy decisions on any of their proposals.

The Department of Interior had approved an off-reservation casino in the Catskill for the St. Regis Mohawk. But it was tied to a specific site and to the tribe only, meaning their new partner, Park Place, would have to apply all over again to the Department to receive approval.

Similarly, Catskills Development, the tribe's former partner, can't simply find another tribe to replace the Mohawk. It had taken the Department three years to approve the plan.

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Agency head advises patience on casino plans (The Albany Times-Union 9/19)