White Earth Nation reveals plans for casino & resort near Moorhead
The plans call for 90,000-110,000 square feet of gaming space, 900-1,200 slot machines and 10-12 table games
MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) — Representatives of White Earth Nation, operators of Shooting Star Casinos in Mahnomen and Bagley, spell out their plans for a casino and resort to be built on a plot of land near Moorhead.
They unveiled plans for a tribal gaming facility during a meeting with Clay County Commission.
The tribe purchased about 280 acres near the junction of I-94 and State Highway 336 last December through a land auction for $3.9 million.
The plans call for 90,000 to 110,000 square feet of gaming space, up to 1,200 slot machines, gaming tables, a convenience store, truck stop and space for up to 300 resort style rooms.
The complex would generate up to 500 jobs.
“We’re part of this community, you know our, my ancestors were part of this area. You know I think this is something that needs to be in consideration. You know these are just preliminary things that we’re throwing out there. To create economic productivity,” said White Earth Nation Chairman Michael Fairbanks.
Several people are concerned about the effects on property taxes and sewer and water services.
The project requires placing the land into trust by the federal government and approval of a gaming compact with the State of Minnesota.
**ORIGINAL STORY BELOW**
MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) – The White Earth Band of Chippewa says a planned tribal gaming facility and resort near Moorhead would create at least 450-500 jobs.
Tribal officials outlined their plans Tuesday in a meeting with Clay County Commissioners. The tribe recently acquired land at the junction of I-94 and State Highway 336.
The plans call for 90,000-110,000 square feet of gaming space, 900-1,200 slot machines and 10-12 table games.
The jobs would pay $19.00 per hour, with an extra $2.50 per hour for working weekends.
Construction of the facility would be contingent on several items, including placing the land into trust by the federal government and approval of a gaming compact with the State of Minnesota.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
