Whatcom County Seeks Talks with Tribe

As reported by the Bellingham Herald News: "The Nooksack Indian Tribe should consult with Whatcom County government about environmental concerns before building a planned casino north of Lynden near the Canadian border, the Whatcom County Council decided Tuesday night.

"However, documents released by the tribe show the site of the planned casino is on tribal trust land, meaning state and local officials cannot stop or affect the development.

"The planned 35,800-square-foot Northwood Crossing Casino would sit on 20 acres of tribal trust land at the corner of Northwood and Halverstick roads. The $14 million casino would focus on Canadian customers, with profits going toward moving and expanding its Nooksack River Casino in Deming.

"Since the tribe announced its plans in May, local farmers and others warned that building a casino surrounded by farmland would destroy the area's agricultural base.

"…After the vote, Nooksack tribal administrator Pat Check said the tribal council would discuss what response to offer the county…"

2006-06-07