This week has a significant meaning for the Seneca Nation of Indians as it marks the 19th year anniversary of its inclusion into a gaming compact with the New York State and the official opening of Lounge 101, which is located in the lobby of its first gaming property in the state – Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.
Exactly 19 years ago, the tribal corporation was officially allowed to enter the state’s gaming scene thanks to the May 14, 2002 referendum. The referendum was successfully passed with a margin of 101 votes with 1,077 for and 976 opposed, thus coming to the name of the club Lounge 101 and paying tribute to this crucial day for the future of the corporation.
Historic Date
President of the Native America gambling corporation Matthew Pagels shared a few words on this special anniversary. He said that 19 years ago the Seneca people gave the local government the authority to pursue a new path and thus changing the future of the company forever. Mr. Pagels stated that he is happy to celebrate such an important moment at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino’s club named after the referendum.
Lori V. Quigley, chairwoman of the tribal corporation’s board of directors, said that the board is always looking into trying and using elements of Seneca’s culture and history in the design and themes of its gambling properties. She stated that 101-name is a crucial part of the firm’s history and none of what the company has achieved would have been possible without the referendum.
Almost two decades after the emblematic referendum vote, the tribal corporation has invested over US$1 billion into its three gaming properties. And currently, the company is one of the largest private employers in Western New York. The new Club 101 is a big part of the corporation’s current US$40 million Seneca Arrival Project, which entirely overhauled the east entrance of the casino resort.
Seneca Gaming Corporation President & CEO Kevin Nephew stated that one of the main reasons why the casino remains as a gambling hotspot is that its management always strives to exceed expectations. He concluded by saying that he is excited to see how the new club will further improve the casino experience for the guests of the property.
Revenue Share Dispute
Speaking of the 2002 gaming compact with the New York State, the tribal corporation has been involved in a little bit of a controversy when it comes to its arrangements with the local government. The compact was renewed in 2017, but according to the tribe, it does not state that the company must continue its 25% revenue share with the NYS.
However, at the start of this May, its president Mr. Pagels partially admitted that the corporation owes money to the state. He said that the 25% for sharing of slot machine revenue is too high, considering how the gambling scene in NY has changed over the years and that the competition is much more fierce nowadays.
Source: “Casino’s Lounge 101 a tribute to 2002 state referendum”, Yahoo Finance, May 12, 2021
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