BA mayor, vice-mayor in Washington D.C. to oppose casino

WASHINGTON - Two Broken Arrow city leaders are in the nation's capitol Monday, expected to voice their opposition to the proposed Kialegee Tribal Town casino, which is still expected to open in the coming weeks.

The Red Clay Casino is currently under construction at 111th and 129th East Avenue in Broken Arrow.

Construction continues, but Mayor Mike Lester and Vice-Mayor Craig Thurmond will meet with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the National Indian Gaming Commission trying to get a decision on the casino.

This meeting comes just a few days after the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tribal Council passed a resolution, opposing the casino.

This vote, although largely symbolic, could be another setback for the Kialegee Tribe, a successor of the Creek Confederacy.

Weeks ago, Creek Nation Chief George Tiger said the casino violates Creek Nation Jurisdictional Law.

For months, the casino has been a polarizing topic for residents of Broken Arrow.

Some are happy with the Creek Nation's latest move.

"I feel like it's a step in the right direction to getting this casino stopped in BA," said De'Etta Hughes, Broken Arrow resident.

But others think the casino will actually benefit the city.

"We're not all against it," said Jenny Leeper, Broken Arrow resident.  "Like I said, I don't think it's going to hurt BA, I think it's going to help it."

Prior to leaving for Washington D.C., Lester released the following statement:

We feel it's important for these officials in these organizations to see us face-to-face so we can convey to them the council's concerns and the concerns of our residents regarding the Red Clay Casino.  It's imperative these organizations make a ruling regarding the legalities of the lease on this property as well as make a determination as to whether this land is eligible for gaming.

The Red Clay Casino is scheduled to open this summer.