After 13 years of debate, legal challenges, and regulatory reviews, the Coquille Indian Tribe has cleared a major hurdle in its quest to establish a casino in Medford, Oregon. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has granted approval for the tribe’s plan to convert the Roxy Ann Lanes bowling alley and its adjacent property into a Class II gaming facility. However, opposition from other tribal groups and influential political figures continues to cloud the project’s future.
The Coquille Indian Tribe, based in North Bend, initially proposed a Medford casino in 2012. Their vision includes a modest Class II gaming facility, which would offer bingo and electronic games, but not the full-scale table games or slot machines typical of Class III casinos. The facility, according to the tribe, would generate significant economic benefits for Southern Oregon, including 200 jobs and additional revenue to fund essential tribal programs such as healthcare, education, and housing.
The tribe’s application has faced multiple delays due to legal, environmental, and political obstacles. Federal approval required extensive consultation with state and local governments, as well as input from other tribes. The BIA’s decision, finalized this month, marks a significant milestone in what has been a prolonged and contentious process.
Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Canyonville, has been one of the most vocal opponents of the Medford casino. They argue that the proposed facility violates longstanding agreements designed to limit casino development in Oregon. These agreements aim to maintain one casino per tribe, preventing an oversaturation of gaming facilities in the state.
Adding to the opposition, Oregon’s senior U.S. senator, Ron Wyden, has consistently expressed concerns about the project. In a statement following the BIA’s approval, Wyden reiterated his belief that expanding gaming in Medford could set a dangerous precedent, paving the way for more off-reservation casinos across the state.
Supporters of the casino highlight the potential economic boost it could provide to Medford and the surrounding region. The Coquille Tribe estimates that the project will create approximately 200 jobs during the construction phase and sustained employment opportunities once the casino opens. In addition, local businesses could benefit from increased tourism and visitor spending.
Medford city officials have remained largely neutral but acknowledge the potential economic benefits. Mayor Randy Sparacino said in a recent statement, “While this is ultimately a federal and tribal matter, we hope any development in Medford supports our community and aligns with our long-term vision for growth.”
Despite the BIA’s approval, the Coquille Tribe’s casino is far from a done deal. Opponents, including the Cow Creek Band and Senator Wyden, have pledged to pursue further legal and legislative action to block the project. In addition, the Oregon Governor’s Office has yet to weigh in definitively on the matter, further complicating the tribe’s path forward.
As the debate continues, Medford residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see if this long-awaited project finally becomes a reality—or if the battle over casino gaming in Oregon is far from over.