The Coquille Indian Tribe has emerged victorious in a protracted legal battle, securing federal approval to operate a gaming facility on approximately 2.4 acres of land in Medford, Oregon. This decision, upheld by a federal judge, marks the culmination of a decade-long effort by the tribe to utilize the land for economic development.
The tribe initially purchased the property in 2010 with plans for economic growth. In 2012, they applied to have the land placed into federal trust, a process that would enable them to use it for a casino. However, the application faced significant delays and legal challenges, with the Department of the Interior (DOI) only approving the trust in January 2025.
The Legal Battle and Judicial Decision
The Coquille Tribe’s plans were met with opposition from three other tribes—the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, the Karuk Tribe, and the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation—who challenged the DOI’s decision in court. They argued that the federal government lacked the legal authority to approve the land for trust and gaming. However, U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta disagreed, ruling in favor of the Coquille Tribe and the federal government.
The judge’s decision centered on the Coquille Restoration Act of 1989 which restored the tribe’s federal recognition and authorized the Secretary of the Interior to take land into trust within the tribe’s five-county service area. Since the Medford property falls within this designated area, the court determined that it qualifies as ‘restored lands’ under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act thereby permitting gaming on the site.
Implications for the Coquille Tribe
The ruling is a significant victory for the Coquille Tribe, affirming their sovereignty and strengthening the Restoration Act. Tribal officials have stated that the gaming facility will continue to operate, with revenues funding critical services, programs, and support for current and future generations of tribal citizens.
Coquille Indian Tribal Council Chairwoman Brenda Meade expressed gratitude for the judge’s decision, noting that it honors the tribe’s past chiefs and elders who supported the project. She emphasized that the ruling allows the tribe to provide for its citizens and rebuild its economy within the designated service area.
Reactions and Future Steps
The decision has sparked mixed reactions. While the Medford City Council initially opposed the casino, they later softened their stance. However, Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., criticized the Interior Department’s decision, describing it as a ‘casino arms race’ that could lead to uncontrolled expansion of gambling in Oregon.
Despite the criticism, the Coquille Tribe is moving forward with their plans. The gaming facility, which opened after the DOI’s approval in January 2025, will continue to operate. The tribe has also indicated that they may seek review in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit if the plaintiff tribes decide to appeal the decision.
