The Semiahmoo First Nation has announced it will acquire Elements Casino Surrey from operator Great Canadian Entertainment, pending regulatory approval. It is the eighth casino in southwest B.C. that Great Canadian has sold to a First Nation in the last two years.
Elements Casino Surrey is adjacent to the Fraser Downs racetrack, which ceased racing operations last August, even as the casino remained open.
Great Canadian said in a joint statement with Semiahmoo First Nation that it would provide a year of transition services for the nation’s SE-MI-AH-MU Development Corporation as it works to close the deal.
“This acquisition represents an important step forward in strengthening economic opportunity for Semiahmoo First Nation and reaffirming our presence within our traditional territory as a strong and capable business entity,” Semiahmoo Chief Harley Chappell said.
