The Richland casino recently paid $500,000 in gambling taxes and urged the city of Pasco to strongly oppose the proposed tribal casino by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. The idea of a casino in Pasco is not new, but the intensification of the project has highlighted tensions between different Native American tribes. The objections raised by the Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla are the main causes of the ongoing conflict.
Conflicting Views: Tribal Sovereignty and Territorial Rights
The Colville’s proposal includes the creation of a huge casino with a 200-room hotel, restaurants, and parking for 1,500 vehicles, a project that could potentially transform the economy of Pasco. However, the Yakama Nation immediately contested the idea, arguing that the land acquired by the Colville is part of their ancestral territory, as outlined in the 1855 treaty. According to the Yakama, the project violates their territorial rights, risking their resources and control over ancestral lands. The Yakama Nation officially requested the city of Pasco to oppose the project, urging local authorities to consider the importance of respecting the boundaries established by the treaty and their territorial rights. The objections are strong: this is not just a legal matter, but also a cultural and identity-based one.
On the other hand, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville, who identify with the Palus people, claim the area as their ancestral land, a viewpoint rooted in the tribeâs history. The Colville argue that the name “Pasco” comes from the Palus language, and thus, their connection to the region is deeply historical. For them, this is not just an economic opportunity, but a chance to restore part of their cultural identity, which has suffered significant losses over the centuries.
The Economic Implications of the Tribal Casino
From an economic standpoint, the Colville project in Pasco promises to bring significant revenues. The casino would not only be a source of income for the tribe but also an important job creation opportunity for the community. If the project is realized, it could create hundreds of jobs, from service positions to management roles. But the impact wouldnât be limited to the Colville Tribe: the entire surrounding area would benefit, thanks to the potential increase in tourism and local spending. The tribes already engaged in gambling, such as the Yakama Nation and Umatilla, are aware of these potential benefits but are concerned about the possible economic damage resulting from direct competition. If a Colville casino were to open so close, the revenues generated by their casinos could decrease, creating financial difficulties for the tribes already active in the sector.
Tribal Sovereignty and Legal Controversies
At the federal level, the Colville’s project is currently under review. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is assessing the environmental and social impact of the initiative, a crucial step for the authorization to build. The Colville began the process of acquiring the land in trust in 2024, and they expect a decision by the end of 2024 or early 2025. (tri-cityherald.com).
In this context, the Yakama Nation has strongly voiced their objections, calling for respect of the treaty and recognition of their sovereign rights over the lands they occupy. The dispute tightly links the concept of tribal sovereignty with the economic opportunities arising from gambling, making the conflict particularly complex.
Local Politics and Reflection on the Future
Locally, Pascoâs mayor, Saul Martinez, and city manager, Dave Zabell, are facing a delicate situation. The city has already seen economic benefits from gambling-related activities, but now it finds itself in the midst of a dispute that could further polarize relations between tribes. The cityâs decision to support or oppose the Colville project could have long-term repercussions.
Moreover, this dispute raises important questions about tribal jurisdiction, how tribal rights are recognized, and how local authorities should manage conflicts between different Native communities. The Pasco case is not an isolated incident but part of a broader debate involving Native American tribes and tribal sovereignty across the country.
Future Prospects of the Casino
The intensification of this conflict doesnât appear to be stopping anytime soon. While the Colville are preparing to vigorously defend their right to build the casino, the Yakama and Umatilla continue to seek legal and political alliances to counter the project. The situation is likely to remain at the forefront of public debate for an extended period. The federal authorities will have to make a crucial decision that could set a precedent regarding territorial management and tribal sovereignty in similar situations.
Conclusions
In summary, the Pasco tribal casino dispute highlights the complex dynamics between Native tribes, territorial rights, and the economic opportunities brought by gambling. Tribal sovereignty, respect for treaties, and resource management are at the heart of this controversy, and its outcome could significantly impact the future of tribal relations and the economic landscape of the region.
