The Picayune Rancheria of the
Chukchansi Indians in California has laid off its top casino executives and all of its gaming commission, The Fresno Bee reports.
The Chukchansi Gold Resort &
Casino closed six months ago on October 10, 2014, a day after an armed confrontation between rival factions of the tribe. Since there's no activity there, Chairman Reggie Lewis said there's no need for top staff or regulators.
“They say they have to be there to regulate,” Lewis told the paper. “But there is nothing up there to regulate.”
General manager Giffen Tan and executive director Khamphila Chhom were let go but they are expected to return once the tribe reopens the facility. That process appears to be in flux -- an election that was scheduled for May 2 has been delayed, Lewis told the paper.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs,
and the National Indian Gaming
Commission have recognized Lewis as a leader of an interim council. A new election could help clear the air and clear the way for the reopening.
The gaming commission had five members, the Bee reported. Their employment contracts called for them to stay on board until at least two months after the election, the paper said.
Get the Story:
Chukchansi casino gaming commission relieved of duties
(The Fresno Bee 4/10)
Naming and gaming questions surrounding Chukchansi Park
(KSFN 4/9)
New deal with City Hall would cut Fresno Grizzlies' rent by half
(The Fresno Bee 4/8)
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