Officials for the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians announced on Monday that Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino will reopen doors for visitors on December 31 at 10 am local time. The venue was closed in October 2014 after a violent dispute between rivaling tribal factions erupted in the casino’s offices.
Earlier this month, it became clear that tribal officials and the National Indian Gaming Commission had reached an agreement for the resort’s reopening. Under its terms, the tribe would have to pay the total amount of $19.8 million. Part of the fine, however, may be suspended provided that the hotel and casino venue manages to stick to the settlement agreement in the years to come.
In addition, officials for Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino will have to make sure that nothing that threatens the health and safety of both employees and customers would occur. Last but not least, the complex will have to provide all the necessary financial information about its operations in a timely manner.
As mentioned above, the resort would open doors on December 31. And an official reopening ceremony will be held on January 15. At first, the casino at the complex will reopen with a 56,000-square-foot gaming space and will feature 1,700 slot machines and 22 table games. In addition to this, the hotel will offer 220 rooms and suites and visitors will also have the chance to enjoy numerous food and beverage and entertainment options.
In 2016, the complex is expected to relaunch another 200 rooms and suites, more food and beverage options, a 200-seat entertainment venue with live music and sports entertainment options, a 13,000-square-foot spa, and many more.
Commenting on the resort’s reopening, Christian Goode, COO of Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino said that their team has been working very hard to prepare the property for its relaunch. Mr. Goode added that they are looking forward to providing both new and returning customers with the best possible gaming and entertainment experience.
Chukchansi tribal chairwoman Claudia Gonzales told media that the upcoming reopening is the result from the Tribal Council’s hard work and prolonged negotiations with their government and local business partners as well as the casino management team. Ms. Gonzales further pointed out that Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino’s relaunch is the first important step towards “bringing prosperity back to [their] people.”
