The native Village of Eklutna has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of the Chin’an Gaming Hall, marking a crucial step towards self-determination. This gaming hall has been a long-awaited project for the village.
Aaron Leggett, President of the Native Village of Eklutna, expressed his excitement about this historic moment. “Today, it is official, the Chin’an Gaming Hall has begun operation,” he stated. Leggett emphasized that this represents a major achievement for the village.
The gaming hall is located on ancestral lands owned by members of the Eklutna Tribe in the unincorporated communities of Birchwood and Chugiak. Initially, the hall will operate with a limited capacity, accommodating eight patrons at a time by invitation only.
The temporary facility features 85 gaming machines, while the permanent hall will have a capacity for up to 700 machines. Furthermore, the village plans to open two restaurants at the permanent facility.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs approved the environmental assessment on January 16, paving the way for the launch. The village has entered into an interim agreement with the Municipality of Anchorage to offset the costs of public safety services.
Additionally, the village will comply with state licensing agreements if they decide to serve alcohol. Currently, no alcohol is served at the facility.
The permanent facility is expected to take 13 to 15 months to complete, with an anticipated opening in 2026. Dan and Robin Amadon were the first patrons to visit the Chin’an Gaming Hall.
The launch of the Chin’an Gaming Hall is a significant achievement for the Native Village of Eklutna. So, it marks a major step towards self-determination and economic growth through gaming revenue, as envisioned by Aaron Leggett.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
