Small New Mexico Town Hopes To Become Large Casino Destination

Article by : Erik Gibbs Feb 14, 2024

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In the quiet town of Raton, New Mexico, situated 100 miles northeast of Taos, a unique collaboration with the Pueblo of Picuris is on the horizon as the town seeks to breathe new life into its economy.

Raton, in its quest for an economic resurgence, has set its sights on a promising partnership with the Pueblo of Picuris, one of the state’s smallest Indigenous communities with a population of around 300.

The discussions between Raton officials and the pueblo regarding the prospect of a gaming facility have been ongoing for nearly three years, as disclosed by Raton Mayor Neil Segotta, according to Colorado Public Radio.

The envisioned development aims to leverage New Mexico’s tribal/state compact, a regulatory framework that exclusively permits casino-style gaming on tribal lands.

The potential transfer of land to the Pueblo of Picuris serves as the pivotal step toward realizing the construction and operation of a casino complex, offering Raton a promising economic lifeline.

In a recent city commission meeting, Scott Berry, the former city manager of Raton, underscored the project’s capacity to act as a catalyst for economic growth. With a sense of optimism, he highlighted the potential positive effects the casino project could unleash on tourism and job opportunities in the region.

Berry conveyed that the proposal presented to the commissioners was strategically crafted as a potent driver for economic development in Raton. He went on to express that, in his view, it stood out as the most formidable catalyst available for such purposes.

Echoing the sentiments expressed by Berry, Richard Mestas, the current city manager, reiterated the anticipated benefits of the proposed project.

Mestas shared insights into the development’s vision, envisioning not just a casino but also the potential incorporation of additional amenities like a hotel or restaurant. Underlining the city’s dedication, he emphasized plans to provide utilities essential for supporting the project.

However, despite the commission’s endorsement of the resolution, Mayor Pro-tem Lori Chatterley clarified that it should not be misconstrued as a binding agreement. Chatterley stressed that the resolution signifies an expression of intent to engage in discussions and does not obligate the city to the land transfer at this preliminary stage.

Affirming the city’s stance, Chatterley emphasized that the resolution signaled a clear declaration of intent to move forward. She took care to clarify that it held no legally binding force, did not involve any immediate property transfer, but rather, served as a goodwill gesture, reflecting the city’s positive outlook on future developments.

Looking ahead, as the plans take shape, a meeting is slated for later this month, bringing together leaders from the Pueblo of Picuris and city officials. The gathering aims to delve deeper into the potential partnership and assess its implications for both entities.