Threat of casino in Ontario, Oregon

The Burns Paiute Tribe obtained support of Malheur County and Ontario city leaders last week for its proposed plan to build a resort/casino/convention center in the Ontario area.

Earlier this year the tribe submitted a letter of intent to file an application seeking permission to build a casino on 42 acres in Malheur County near Ontario. The letter had to be filed with the Secretary of Interior by April 15 to meet a federal cutoff deadline.

Critics of the casino attempted to roll the deadline back to March through legislation in Congress. However, that attempt failed, clearing the way for the tribes to proceed with a local casino.

In a resolution approved Wednesday, the Malheur County Court stated, “the county supports positive economic and community developments that create jobs, enhance the local goals of responsible economic and community vitality, support infrastructure, advance planned growth in Malheur County and recognize the needs and concerns of Malheur County.”

The resolution stated the court supports the efforts of the tribe to explore locating its desired facility in the Ontario area and the tribe's commitment to provide the court with information that can be shared with the public.

In a report to the Ontario City Council, Ontario City Manager Scott Trainor said the tribe had contacted the city and indicated it was continuing to move forward. The tribe is exploring the feasibility of the resort/casino, Trainor said, and are in the process of hiring a consultant to help it.

Trainor said the tribal representatives had indicated they are exploring such ideas as a hotel, restaurants, possible convention space, a possible golf course and some associated housing.

“No details are known as to the size and scope of the such a development,” Trainor said in his report. “Consequently, no details are known as to the impact that such a development might have on city streets, public safety services, utilities.” An Oregon policy would require the Burns Paiute Tribe to close its casino in Harney County, outside of Burns, in order to open another one. Federal law also requires tribes to obtain state approval and reach a compact with the governor on the operation of the casino.