Coquille Tribe Starts Gaming in Medford While Legal Battle Continues

The Coquille Indian Tribe has now begun its gaming operations in South Medford opening a Class II gaming venue inside the old Roxy Ann Lanes bowling alley. This move comes after the US Department of the Interior decided to put 2.4 acres of land into trust for the tribe allowing them to set up The Cedars at Bear Creek casino.

Ray Doering Highlights Coquille Tribe’s Vision for Large-Scale Entertainment Complex

Ray Doering, the public affairs director for Tribal One, a Coquille Tribe subsidiary, highlighted the lengthy process to reach this point saying the tribe wanted to move forward without more delays. He mentioned that the gaming facility is a key part of the tribe’s plans to build a large-scale entertainment complex in the area, as reported by the Rogue Valley Times.

Right now, the facility has about 12 Class II gaming machines, with plans to add up to 650 machines later. These devices use bingo-based technology, which sets them apart from standard Class III slot machines. The facility does not have table games like blackjack or poker.

The casino project has caused a stir and legal fights. Three other tribes — the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, the Karuk Tribe, and the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation — have sued to challenge the federal approval. They say the decision breaks federal gaming rules that require a 120-day notice before opening a new place. The Cow Creek Tribe claims the casino’s quick opening skips legal steps, rendering the operation unlawful.

Cow Creek CEO Criticizes New Casino, Warns of Revenue Loss for Seven Feathers

Cow Creek CEO Michael Rondeau slammed the decision worried about how it would affect the tribe’s Seven Feathers Casino in Canyonville. He thinks the casino could see a drop in revenue of up to 25% because of the new competition. Rondeau called out the Interior Department saying their choice to give the go-ahead recklessly increases gambling in Oregon.

On the flip side, local leaders have shown a mix of feelings. The Medford City Council, which at first did not like the idea, has eased up a bit. Council member Kevin Stine praised the tribe for working well with the community. He is hopeful about the good things the casino could bring to the economy, like new jobs and growth in the area.

The Coquille Tribe intends to keep collaborating with Medford’s planning officials as they push the project forward. Tribal chiefs feel positive about finishing the entire casino soon, which will include a 16,000-square-foot gaming area, bar, and other facilities.

Even with the current legal hurdles, the tribe stays devoted to its goal. Judy Farm, who heads Tribal One, showed excitement about how the project could change South Medford and bring lasting benefits to the area.