Developers to pitch Broken Arrow Red Clay Casino to Muscogee (Creek) Nation

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. - Plans to build a casino in Broken Arrow could be revived by a new partnership.

Earlier this year, a judge ruled the Kialegee Tribal Town could not move forward with a casino at 111th and 129th East Avenue.

Construction halted months ago, but now an appeal and possible partnership with Creek Nation could open the casino's doors.

The tribe, along with the casino's developers, have filed an appeal with the 10th District Court out of Denver.

And despite vocal opposition from hundreds of Broken Arrow residents, Creek Nation council member Sam Alexander says the tribe will consider a proposal by the casino's developers next week.

"There's an awful lot of things that still have to be done to make this a go," Alexander said. "So my hope is that the government will continue to stand on our side and do what's right for the community of Broken Arrow."

If approved, Alexander says Creek Nation would receive 70 percent of the casino's profits. He estimates the casino to generate $15 to 25 million annually.

Not everyone in Broken Arrow opposes the casino either.

"I think that's what we need. It's going to bring more taxes, bring everything," said BA resident Jenny Leeper. "People will have more work around here."

In January, Creek Nation Chief George Tiger said the casino would violate jurisdictional law within the tribe. Further complicating its prospects, Creek Nation cannot build another casino within 50 miles of River Spirit Casino in Tulsa.

But, Alexander says, if Creek Nation used the revenue generated by the new casino to pay off that loan, they would no longer be held to those regulations.

The council will first discuss the issue next Tuesday to decide whether to send it to a council vote Saturday.