Rolling the Dice in Oklahoma: A Deep Dive into the United Keetoowah Band's Casino Ambitions

Key Takeaways

• The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians has unveiled plans for a new casino in Garfield County, seeking approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
• Positioned strategically at the intersection of Oklahoma 132 and U.S. 412, the casino aims to become a major economic engine, with an estimated $38m gross income in its first year.
• The proposed full-service casino complex promises job creation, community partnerships, and significant financial investment, despite previous setbacks in city negotiations.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians is betting big on a new venture that could transform the economic landscape of Garfield County, Oklahoma, and set the tribe on a path to becoming a key player in the state's gaming industry. After facing rejection from the city of Enid in 2019, the tribe has now set its sights just beyond the city limits, on a 30-acre tract of land earmarked for development into a bustling casino resort.

A Strategic Location for Prosperity Nestled at the crossroads of Oklahoma 132 and U.S. 412, the proposed site is not just geographically significant but symbolizes a new direction for the tribe and potential prosperity for the surrounding community. With plans for a $50 million development that includes 500 gaming machines and additional amenities such as a hotel, the casino promises to be a cornerstone of economic development and job creation.

Community and Economic Impacts Jeff Wacoche, the tribe's assistant chief, emphasized the tribe's commitment to forging partnerships that benefit all stakeholders, highlighting potential collaborations with local police and fire departments. The anticipated $38 million in gross income during the casino's first year of operation speaks volumes about its potential economic impact, not to mention the hundreds of jobs expected to arise from both the construction phase and the casino's ongoing operations.

Overcoming Obstacles with Ambition The journey to this point has not been without its challenges. The city of Enid's initial rejection of the casino proposal in 2019 was a setback, but the subsequent signing of a Class III gaming compact with Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt in June 2020 marked a significant step forward. This compact, allowing for Las Vegas-style gaming (excluding sports wagering), was a crucial milestone, setting the stage for the current proposal.

A Vision for the Future Chief Joe Bunch expressed confidence in the project's potential, envisioning the casino as a top destination in Oklahoma. The additional 110 acres available for future development only add to the project's promise, hinting at the possibility of an even larger entertainment and hospitality district.

Navigating the Path to Approval The road to breaking ground on this ambitious project involves several critical steps, including obtaining final validation from the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. While these approvals are pending, the tribe's proactive approach to financing and community engagement suggests a strong foundation for success.

A Win-Win for the Community The United Keetoowah Band's proposal represents more than just a casino; it's a vision for community partnership, economic revitalization, and cultural celebration. As Garfield County and the tribe embark on this journey together, the promise of mutual benefits looms large, offering a model for how tribal enterprises can contribute to local economies while preserving their heritage and autonomy.

In the grand scheme of things, this casino project is not just a gamble but a calculated strategy to ensure prosperity, cultural preservation, and community development. As the tribe and county officials work towards making this vision a reality, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, heralding a new era for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the people of Garfield County.