Ellensburg Casino Proposal Rejected

As reported by the Yakima Herald Republic: "Yakama leaders have rejected a proposal to build a second tribal casino near Ellensburg.

"But the proposal's primary proponent isn't giving up and says he'll take the issue before tribal members at their next annual meeting.

"Ted Strong, a business consultant and tribal member, is pushing for a 520-acre project a mile south of Ellensburg, which would include a $275 million family resort with a theme park, golf course, casino and housing.

"The tribe, which operates Legends Casino in Toppenish, has been looking at sites in Tri-Cities, Snoqualmie, Vancouver, Ellensburg and Portland to expand its gaming operations.

"Tribal officials said they rejected the Ellensburg location because it's in the Yakima River flood plain and could harm fish and wildlife habitat…"