Anchorage, Alaska — A U.S. District Court judge has ruled in favor of a tribal casino near Anchorage, backing the Native Village of Eklutna and its newly opened Chin’an Gaming Hall. The ruling comes amid contention from local residents who attempted to halt the project, citing concerns over traffic and noise disturbances in their community.
The judge, James L. Robart, firmly dismissed arguments from Birchwood residents who contested the tribe’s federal recognition. According to Robart’s decision, the Eklutna tribal government was recognized by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs in 1993. Furthermore, he pointed out that federal recognition of tribes can occur in several ways, including acts of Congress or court resolutions, confirming their rights and eligibility for support.
Robart stated that the tribal sovereignty of the Native Village of Eklutna is well established, granting them the authority to operate the casino. The Chin’an Gaming Hall, sited on 8 acres of land known as the Ondola allotment, received necessary approvals from both the National Indian Gaming Commission and the Bureau of Indian Affairs before its opening earlier this year.
The efforts to establish the casino stem from decades of attempts by the tribe to create employment opportunities and revenue for members. Aaron Leggett, president of the Native Village of Eklutna, expressed that the decision underscores the lasting acknowledgment of tribal rights in Alaska. He highlighted the importance of the Gaming Hall as a demonstration of resilience and vision for the tribe.
“Today’s ruling validates our belief that our tribal rights and identity are intertwined with this land,” Leggett said. He noted the tribe’s commitment to enhancing relationships with the local community and sharing the benefits of the casino throughout Alaska.
However, the fight isn’t over. Brian Holl, a lead plaintiff in the case against the casino, could not be reached for comment. Don Mitchell, attorney for the Birchwood residents contesting the location, criticized the ruling, stating he would file a motion for reconsideration. Depending on the outcome, Holl and other plaintiffs may choose to appeal.
In an additional layer to the situation, the administration of Governor Mike Dunleavy previously initiated a separate federal lawsuit aimed at asserting state jurisdiction over Alaska Native allotments, which could potentially challenge the casino’s operations.
This development not only marks a significant victory for the Native Village of Eklutna but also poses ongoing legal challenges and community tensions surrounding the casino’s future.
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