Editorial: White Earth Band and casino property tax

Friday, August 8, 2008  

"The White Earth Band of Chippewa and Mahnomen County, which lies entirely within its borders, haven’t been acting very neighborly lately.

Not only has the tribe quit paying property taxes on its Shooting Star Casino and Event Center in the City of Mahnomen — it is seeking a refund for property taxes paid since 1992.

If the tribe wins, local government in Mahnomen County will have to pay it nearly $10 million, plus whatever interest is set by the court.

That bill would be split among the county, cities, school districts, townships and other taxing authorities, including the state.

We’re not talking small potatoes for Mahnomen, a county of just over 5,100 residents — about two-thirds white and a third native — with a poverty rate twice that of the state average."

Get the Story:
WE Tribe, Mahnomen County should try to be neighbors again (The Detroit Lakes Tribune 8/6)
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Earlier Story:
White Earth Band fights for casino trust status (7/15)