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Tribes Turn Casino Profits into Economic Tool

WASHINGTON – As reported by the Puget Sound Business Journal: "Many Washington tribes are using newfound casino earnings to finance other economic development projects, raising the possibility that the boom in tribal gaming will have a lasting role in reducing poverty in Indian Country.

"Tribes whose general funds are being fattened by gaming income are spending the money on scholarships, land acquisitions and other business ventures, including hotels, marinas and a concert amphitheater.

"Portland-based consulting firm ECONorthwest estimates that Washington's 28 tribal casinos generated $626 million in gaming revenues last year. As a group, tribal casinos in 2002 controlled about 46 percent of the state's gaming market, Gambling Commission data show.

"…A lot of the money is spent on long-term economic development. The [Swinomish Tribe] tribe this month opened a gas station and convenience store next to the casino. The $2 million retail development is part of a larger effort to diversify the tribe's economy with complementary businesses.

"…The Swinomish are also investing in their young people. The tribe awards a $16,000 scholarship -- $4,000 a year for four years -- to any tribal member who graduates from high school and enrolls in a college, university or trade school.

"…Other Washington tribes are putting their casino earnings to work on economic development projects.

"Casino tribes helped finance the production of a booklet that promotes tourism on the reservation. The tribes recently printed 150,000 copies for distribution.

"East of Auburn, in South King County, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is spending its casino earnings on projects that are intended to improve the health, housing, education and economic standing of the tribe.

"The Muckleshoots have used the money to offer college scholarships and buy a computer for every tribal member. Casino proceeds also helped pay for the development of the White River Amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue that opened this summer…"

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