Acoma Pueblo, a Native American community based in New Mexico, has announced that an agreement was reached with Gov. Susana Martinez on an increase in the percentage of revenue from the so-called Sky City Casino that will be contributed to the state’s coffers.
Last week, the Navajo Nation made a similar agreement for a higher turnover share. In addition to this, the tribe will be allowed to build and operate yet another casino. Its launch is planned to take place within six years.
According to several tribes, the market is currently oversaturated and new gambling venues might affect the industry in a negative manner. Others agreed on the proposed rise in revenue-sharing percentage as long as no other casinos are built in near proximity to their lands.
If the New Mexico Legislature approves the Navajo agreement, the tribe will be given the opportunity to open three more casinos within 30 years. Currently, it operates two Las Vegas-themed gambling venues. Other tribes, however, objected to this potential compact.
As for Acoma Pueblo, it believes that it will get the necessary approval from the state Legislature. Under the current compact between the community and New Mexico, the tribe contributes 8% of its slot machines revenue. Under the new 22-year agreement, it will have to share 8.5% of its turnover up to 2018, 8.75% up to 2030, and 9.5% up to 2037 when it expires.
Pueblo of Acoma Governor Fred S. Vallo said in a statement that tribal leaders expect the compact will bring to the tribe the development they wish for. They will be able to provide finances for tribal operations of all kinds and more jobs will be created. Currently, the Sky City Casino employs 600 people, who are either members of the community or live nearby.
A few other tribes have also been trying to reach an agreement with New Mexico’s administration. Jicarilla Apache Nation and Mescalero Apache Tribe, too, manage casinos under compacts that will expire in June. Jemez and Zuni Pueblos are also negotiating with Gov. Martinez. They, however, are not providing any gambling operations at present but are striving for potential licenses.
Pojoaque Pueblo’s current compact also expires in June. Yet, the tribe’s terms with the state’s government are not particularly good. According to the community, the market is currently way too weak so as for it to agree on paying higher revenue share. Pojoaque Pueblo also stated that certain changes should be introduced. For instance, alcoholic beverages should be allowed to be served within casino premises.
At present, all potential compacts should be approved by both the state Legislature and the U.S. Department of the Interior in order to come into effect.
