The embattled Cowlitz Indian Tribe, mired in a criminal antitrust investigation, is considering ending its long and profitable relationship with the Connecticut gaming company that manages the southwest Washington tribe’s ilani Casino Resort.
The Cowlitz Tribal Council stunned its own members when it issued a statement Monday saying it is considering its options. The tribe’s management contract with the Mohegan Tribe, a successful and experienced casino operator that has run the ilani since its opening six years ago, expires in June 2024.
It’s a high-stakes, high-risk decision, both for the tribe and southwest Washington. The ilani casino has been enormously successful. With more than 3 million annual visitors, the casino has quickly become the most popular tourist site in Clark County and one of its largest employers, with more than 1,500 on payroll.
