The Coquille Indian Tribe has secured a significant victory in its quest to operate a gaming facility in Medford, Oregon. On September 4, 2026, U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta upheld the U.S. Department of the Interior’s decision to place a 2.4-acre property into trust for the tribe, allowing gaming activities on the site. This ruling comes after a protracted legal battle that has spanned several years.
The lawsuit was initially filed by the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, the Karuk Tribe, and the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, challenging the Interior Department’s January 2025 approval. The opposing tribes argued that the land did not meet the requirements of the restored lands exception under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and that the federal agency had overstepped its authority.
The Legal Battle and the Court’s Decision
The court’s decision hinged on the Coquille Restoration Act of 1989 which restored the tribe’s federal recognition and authorized the Secretary of the Interior to place land into trust within the tribe’s five-county service area. Judge Mehta determined that the Medford property, located in Jackson County, falls within this designated area, thereby qualifying for gaming under the IGRA.
In his ruling, Judge Mehta emphasized that courts cannot overturn an agency decision when it is reasonable and adequately explained. He stated, “Plaintiffs may disagree, but the court is not empowered to revisit the decision so long as it is ‘reasonable and reasonably explained.'” This decision confirms the Coquille Tribe‘s authority to operate its Medford gaming facility, which opened after receiving federal approval in January 2025.
The Impact on the Coquille Tribe and Local Community
The Cedars at Bear Creek facility, situated at the former Roxy Ann Lanes site on South Pacific Highway, currently operates with around 30 Class II gaming machines. The tribe also owns and manages the nearby Bear Creek Golf Course and Compass Hotel Medford. The revenue generated from the facility supports various services, programs, and future initiatives for tribal citizens.
Coquille Tribal Chair Brenda Meade expressed gratitude for the ruling, stating that it confirms the tribe’s position that the Restoration Act supports its ability to develop economic opportunities within its designated service area. “This ruling ensures our sovereignty is stronger than ever and strengthens our Restoration Act,” Meade said. “We celebrate this significant ruling and also remember our past Chiefs and Elders who walked this road before us.”
Future Plans and Potential Appeals
The Coquille Tribe has long-term plans to expand the property to a 16,000-square-foot gaming floor featuring 650 Class II machines. The Interior Department has estimated that the completed facility could generate approximately $18.5 million in annual revenue. However, the ruling remains subject to appeal, as the three plaintiff tribes can request review from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
The project has faced opposition from some local and tribal officials since its approval. Medford city officials initially objected to the casino before later reaching a municipal services agreement with the Coquille Tribe covering public services at the property. U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden has also criticized the approval, describing it as a “casino arms race” and a “reckless choice by D.C. bureaucrats.”
Despite the opposition, the federal court ruling allows the Medford gaming operation to continue while any potential appeal process develops. The Coquille Tribe remains focused on delivering a great service and experience for all its guests, monitoring the issues brought forward about the project.
