Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe courted on gaming

Wednesday, March 7, 2007  

The ink is barely dry on the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe's federal recognition decision but that isn't stopping some communities from offering land for a potential casino.

The Middleboro board of selectmen voted unanimously to talk to the tribe about a casino. There are at least two possible sites in the town.

Other communities have expressed an interest in hosting a casino. The tribe plans to work with lawmakers to legalize Class III gaming and negotiate a compact with the state.

As a newly recognized tribe, the Mashpee would qualify for an exception in Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The state governor's approval wouldn't be needed to create an initial reservation.

Get the Story:
Middleboro officials to pitch casino sites to Wampanoag (The New Bedford Standard-Times 3/7)
Middleboro residents wary of casino (The Brockton Enterprise 3/7)
Middleboro courts tribe (The Brockton Enterprise 3/6)