Station Casinos Approved for Tribal Casino in California

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jan 15, 2024

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On Thursday, the National Indian Gaming Commission approved an agreement between the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians and Station Casinos.

This collaboration is centered around the development of the North Fork Mono Casino & Resort, situated on a 305-acre site near Madera, California, whose federal trust status was established in 2013.

The ambitious project encompasses a 100,000-square-foot casino featuring 2,000 slot machines, 40 table games and various other amenities, with a commitment to creating 1,000 jobs.

The strategic location alongside Highway 99 ensures convenient access. The approval marks the conclusion of a 20-year process, securing necessary endorsements from Washington, D.C.

Former tribal Chairwoman Elaine Bethel-Fink emphasized the importance of acknowledging the tribal leaders and citizens, some of whom are no longer present, that guided and influenced the project over the years.

Initiating an 11-year journey from compact negotiations to casino realization, the submission marked a significant milestone. The significant progress started in 2011, gaining momentum when then-Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar affirmed the Mono Indians’ ancestral ties to the Madera area.

The subsequent year saw the Rancheria engaging in negotiations for a compact with California’s then-Governor Jerry Brown. This compact received legislative approval in 2013, subsequently submitted to the Interior Department for the crucial stamp of approval.

Reflecting on the extensive attention and scrutiny received, tribal Treasurer Maryann McGovran expressed pride in the accomplishments but voiced a desire for the project’s earlier completion.

McGovran attributed delays primarily to tactics employed by competitors and opponents, describing them as dubious and emphasizing the substantial costs incurred by the Tribe and community. Nevertheless, the Tribe is content with the present progress.

With a membership exceeding 2,500, the North Fork tribe celebrated its 50th federal recognition anniversary last year. Tribal Chairman Fred Beihn conveyed gratitude for having a committed partner in Station, emphasizing their dedication to tribal sovereignty principles and the comprehensive benefits of tribal gaming for the Tribe and community.

Contributing to the realization of this exciting project, Station President Scott Kreeger highlighted its role in fostering economic prosperity for the surrounding community and tribal members by generating permanent job opportunities.

With prior experience in developing and managing tribal casinos, including establishments in California, Station brings its expertise to the North Fork project. The announcement, however, did not provide a specific timeline for the construction of the North Fork casino.