White Earth Nation Proposes Casino and Resort Complex
MOORHEAD — On Tuesday, April 22, leaders from the White Earth Nation announced plans to develop a casino, resort, and convention center on a 280-acre site in Clay County.
During a Clay County Commission meeting, representatives of the White Earth Band of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe presented their vision for the resort-casino complex located east of Moorhead, near the intersection of Interstate 94 and Highway 336. The tribe acquired the land at the end of the previous year.
Tribal Chairman Michael Fairbanks emphasized the tribe’s commitment to transparency regarding their business initiatives both on and off the reservation, highlighting the importance of community support for the project. “We know that we have to work and that we have to, you know, get the support from the community,” Fairbanks remarked.
The White Earth Nation is requesting a letter of support from Clay County to aid in their land trust application, which, if granted, would allow the federal government to hold the title to the land for the benefit of the tribe. This designation would enable the tribe to construct a casino on the site, which is outside reservation boundaries and also exempt from taxes. Currently, the tribe incurs annual property taxes of $14,000 on this land, according to Land Acquisition Manager Jake Syverson.
Nate Mathews, the executive director of the White Earth Nation Tribal Utility Commission, provided an overview of the proposed complex, which would encompass gaming, lodging, dining, and entertainment. Plans include a casino with an adjacent hotel and convention center alongside options for both fast food and fine dining, plus a truck stop and convenience center. The development is estimated to generate between 450 to 550 jobs with a starting wage of at least $19 per hour.
During the meeting, concerns were raised by Commissioner David Ebinger regarding environmental protections for the nearby aquifer as plans progress for utility services and construction. Members of the public also voiced worries about possible impacts on local law enforcement, social services, and the landscape of charitable gaming. Glyndon Township Supervisor John Winter called for environmental and economic studies relating to the project, urging the tribe to address these public concerns. The White Earth Nation is expected to present their proposal to the Moorhead and Dilworth City Councils later on April 28.
Additionally, the White Earth Nation has intentions to open an adult-use cannabis dispensary in the former JL Beers building in Moorhead. While the dispensary was anticipated to launch in March, its opening date remains unclear, as confirmed by Marketing Communications Director Romyn Hanks.
