Federal Court Upholds Eklutna Tribe’s Casino Venture Amid Local Controversy

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 … Read more