UPDATE: Asotin County officials have sent a letter to the White House demanding immediate federal attention regarding the Nez Perce Tribe’s recent acquisitions of two properties—Red Wolf Golf Club and the former Umpqua Bank building in Clarkston. The letter, dispatched on October 23, 2023, raises urgent concerns about potential economic impacts in the area if the tribe’s applications to place these properties into trust are approved.
Commissioner Chuck Whitman stated that the county is reaching out to the U.S. Department of the Interior and President Joe Biden to request a site visit from federal officials to assess the “small commercial” area surrounding the properties in question. The commissioners warn that allowing gambling at Red Wolf Golf Club could severely disrupt local businesses, particularly non-tribal establishments like the Lancer Lanes Casino, which currently pays gambling taxes while tribal gaming operations would not.
The implications are significant. If the tribe’s request is granted, the golf club could introduce sports betting and other gambling activities, potentially leading to a drop in revenue for local businesses. Whitman emphasized that Asotin County officials are not opposed to the Nez Perce Tribe but are concerned about equality in business opportunities.
The county’s letter highlights a concerning lack of communication from the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Portland, despite multiple attempts to engage in dialogue about the issue. This prompted officials to escalate their appeal to Washington, D.C., expressing frustration that the impacts of these proposed acquisitions seem to be overlooked.
In a statement to the press, Nikoli Greene, Executive Director of Nez Perce Tribal Enterprises, defended the tribe’s actions, emphasizing the goal of boosting the local economy and creating jobs. He noted that the Umpqua Bank building has been vacant for over a year, and revitalizing it is part of a broader strategy to enhance the community.
“We are investing in downtown Clarkston and our original homeland,” Greene stated. “Our focus is on generating revenue and creating employment opportunities for our communities.”
The former Clarkston Golf and Country Club, now known as Red Wolf Golf Club, was purchased by the tribe after struggling financially. County officials have expressed concerns that this transition could result in a loss of approximately $14,500 annually in property tax revenue. However, tribal leaders argue that this loss is more than compensated for by their contributions to local schools and community initiatives.
Asotin County officials are calling for a prompt response from federal authorities to address these critical issues. The situation remains fluid, and the outcome could significantly impact the economic landscape of Clarkston and the surrounding areas. Residents and business owners are urged to stay informed as developments unfold.
For updates on this story, follow our coverage.
