GRAND FORKS, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) – The Grand Forks City Council has voted 4-2 in favor of a Letter of Intent to advance a proposed casino project by the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa.
Council Vote & Public Concerns
📌 Vote Result: 4-2 in favor
📌 Council Members Against: Rebecca Osowski & Ken Vein
📌 Concerns Raised:
- Gambling addiction risks
- Financial impact on the city, as the tribe would be exempt from traditional property taxes
During the meeting, some citizens spoke against the project, while Osowski questioned how Grand Forks would financially benefit from a tribally operated casino.
Casino Proposal Details
✔️ Tribal Chairman Jamie Azure described the project as a “high-end resort”
✔️ Plans include a multi-use entertainment and commercial center
✔️ The tribe sees this as a mutually beneficial project, rather than a one-sided request
What’s Next?
🚨 The vote does not finalize the casino but marks the first step in a lengthy approval process that could take several years.
Further discussions and regulatory approvals will be required before the project moves forward.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for TRFNews