The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has voted against a proposed constitutional amendment that was seen as crucial for the establishment of a tribal casino resort along Interstate 95. This decision comes less than a year after the tribe gained federal recognition as the 575th tribe in the United States.
In a recent election, around 62% of the participating members, totaling over 9,000, opposed the amendment. Tribal Chairman John Lowery expressed his disappointment in a statement on Facebook, emphasizing that the majority of Lumbee people chose to maintain the current situation rather than embrace progress.
The envisioned casino project was expected to bring significant economic benefits to one of North Carolina's most disadvantaged areas, promising up to 3,500 full-time jobs with starting salaries around $45,000. The tribe had already acquired 241 acres for the development and planned to include hotels, restaurants, a convention center, and a golf course.
Supporters of the casino argued that it would provide essential funding for housing, healthcare, education, and public safety initiatives. However, the proposal faced criticism not just for its gaming aspect but also for governance issues. Detractors claimed that the amendment would diminish direct oversight by tribal members and concentrate too much power in the hands of the chairperson.
Opponents, including members of Lumbees United for Accountability, expressed concerns that the amendment contradicted the tribe's constitution. Additionally, some voiced moral objections to casino gambling, with elders from CrossWay Church of Pembroke stressing that the potential economic gains should not overshadow the social consequences of gambling.
Despite the setback, tribal leaders remain hopeful for future gaming opportunities, especially as neighboring states expand their gaming markets. Lowery has cautioned that other gaming establishments could emerge before the Lumbee Tribe can establish their own.