Texas Town to Become Home to New Tribal Casino
A new casino project is set to bring expanded gaming and economic activity to East Texas. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas has announced plans to build the Naskila Casino Resort in Leggett, on tribal-owned land in Polk County. The development was formally presented to the Polk County Commissioners Court by tribal leaders, who confirmed approval from federal authorities to move forward with the project.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Cecilia Flores, chairwoman of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribal Council, addressed local officials about the plans. She explained that the tribe had petitioned the National Indian Gaming Commission for permission to develop gaming facilities on tribal property outside of their main reservation in Livingston. That petition was approved, clearing the way for the new Naskila Casino Resort to be constructed in Leggett.
Related: Las Vegas Sands Backs Off Casino Plans in Texas CityThe announcement comes at a time when efforts to legalize commercial gambling in Texas have stalled in the state legislature. Despite several proposals during the last session, no bill advancing full legalization or expansion of casino gaming passed.
Tribal casinos, however, operate under federal jurisdiction, and the Alabama-Coushatta are one of three federally recognized tribes in Texas. The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe has a casino in Eagle Pass and the Tigua tribe of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo has its venue in El Paso.
Of these, the Kickapoo facility remains the only one recognized by Texas as fully legal, but federal authority has allowed the Alabama-Coushatta and Tigua to maintain their operations.
More Business News
Texas Gambling Expands without State Support
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe first opened Naskila Casino in Livingston nine years ago. Initially offering 365 Class II gaming machines, the casino has since expanded to more than 900 devices.
The facility has become one of Polk County's largest employers, with a workforce supported by an annual payroll of $22.5 million. Overall, the tribe has reportedly invested more than $212 million in East Texas through its gaming operations and related developments.
With the new resort in Leggett, the Alabama-Coushatta plan to build a larger entertainment complex. The resort will include a modern casino floor, hotel accommodations, and expanded dining and entertainment options. According to the tribe, the new facility will create approximately 1,000 new jobs in the region, further strengthening its role as a local economic driver.
The Leggett resort represents the latest chapter in the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe's longstanding efforts to expand gaming and economic opportunities in Texas. With the confirmation from federal regulators and a clear plan for development, the Naskila Casino Resort is set to become a major addition to the state's limited gaming landscape while boosting jobs and investment in Polk County.
RELATED TOPICS: Business
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for Texas Town to Become Home to New Tribal Casino