BLOG - Siletz Casino Project

Siletz Tribe’s Opportunity to Empower our Indigenous Students

The accomplishment of higher education is a significant milestone toward career opportunity and growth, and one which uplifts our entire community. Among the contributions and initiatives of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians are strides toward increasing opportunity and mitigating challenges Indigenous peoples have faced and, in many cases, continue to face in access to education.

To reduce financial barriers associated with higher education and empower tribal members work toward higher academic achievement, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians offers several scholarship programs for Siletz tribal members pursuing higher education. The tribe’s four scholarship programs cater to tribal members pursuing higher education, including undergraduate, graduate, vocational and technical training education.

The tribe-based scholarships are exclusive to Siletz tribal members and cover educational expenses beyond tuition, such as books, fees and supplies. To date, over the last 10 years, the Siletz tribe has awarded 100 students with scholarship funding toward their higher-education journey. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is proud to invest in and empower tribal youth to further their academic achievements and to jumpstart their professional career. Our investment in tribal youth education not only provides advanced career opportunities to tribal members in our community but helps shape the leaders of tomorrow.

To learn more on how The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians contributes to youth and higher education our community or to learn more about other tribal scholarship opportunities, please visit https://ctsi.nsn.us/scholarships/

Siletz Tribe Donates nearly $427,000 to State, Local and County Charitable Organizations

In February, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund distributed nearly $427,000 to 28 state, county, and local organizations. These contributions will support cultural activities, education services, healthcare services, public safety organizations, and historic preservation activities.

Since 2001, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has made quarterly donations to nonprofit groups in the Siletz community, Lincoln County, and the state of Oregon. To date, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has donated more than $21.9 million to charitable organizations.

The positive impact of these partnerships continues to resonate throughout the heart of Oregon and Native American communities. The Siletz Tribe is committed to continuing the tradition of giving back and is proud to play a part in supporting and uplifting our community.

For example, last year, the Fund provided two grants to the Arc Achievement Program of Lincoln County. One grant allowed seven people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities to attend day support programs at no cost. Read more about this partnership in the Lincoln County Leader.

Click here for a complete list of February’s recipients and the official press release from the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

Siletz Tribe Donates More Than $331,000 to State, Local and County Charitable Organizations

In May, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Fund distributed more than $331,000 to 50 diverse state, county, and local organizations. These contributions span a wide range of causes, from supporting cultural activities and education services to healthcare services, public safety organizations, and historic preservation activities.

Since 2001, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has made quarterly donations to nonprofit groups in the Siletz community, Lincoln County, and the state of Oregon. To date, the Fund has donated more than $22.3 million to charitable organizations.

Highlights of this quarter’s charitable funds include:

Assistance League of Salem-Keizer – supply new clothes, shoes, winter coats, hygiene items, food and laundry vouchers for homeless youth and youth in need.
Lincoln City Parks & Recreation – construct ADA playground as part of phase 1 for a new park.
Volunteers of America Oregon – youth-driven prevention services that encourage peer-to-peer education within Portland Public Schools.
Siletz Valley Fire District – help acquire a new fire district rescue vehicle.

Click here for a complete list of May’s donation recipients and the official press release from the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day

Every February 23, on National Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, we recognize hospitality workers’ hard work and dedication around the world. First celebrated by Food Service Direct, this appreciation day spotlights these vital yet often overlooked individuals in the hospitality industry.

Spanning diverse fields such as hotels, food service, theme parks, travel, and event planning, the hospitality sector relies heavily on the expertise and commitment of its workers. From the welcoming front desk staff to the thorough housekeepers and from attentive servers to meticulous event coordinators, these individuals form the backbone of the industry, ensuring unparalleled customer experiences.

In Lincoln County, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians recognize the invaluable contributions of hospitality workers, particularly through the Chinook Winds Casino Resort, the largest employer in the county with over 1,000 employees, many deeply involved in the hospitality industry.

Looking ahead, the Siletz Casino Project is set to create 1,200 permanent, living-wage jobs, with hospitality professionals playing a crucial role in bringing the project to life. From a sprawling 180,800 square-foot casino to a 4-star full-service hotel offering 500 rooms, a pool, spa, and more, the project provides an array of amenities that hospitality workers will expertly operate.

This National Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the integral role played by these professionals in shaping positive customer experiences. Their tireless efforts ensure seamless operations, impacting not just individual establishments but the broader community and economy. As we celebrate this day, let’s take a moment to show gratitude to hospitality professionals and acknowledge their contributions to the economy and our community.

The Siletz Housing Department Breaks Ground on Salem Affordable Housing Project, Kloshe Illahee Haws

The history of the Siletz Tribe and its ancestors dates from time immemorial and includes nearly a third of the land in Oregon. The Tribe’s roots in the Willamette Valley remain strong today.

In 2021, the Siletz Tribal Housing Department secured funding for a 40-unit affordable housing development in Salem, known as Kloshe Illahee Haws, that is being built on 8.8 acres of trust land.

Salem’s affordable housing challenge is a symptom of a shortage of nearly 2,900 dwelling units, driving up the cost of existing units. Additionally, the Salem Metro area is projected to welcome 60,000 additional residents by 2035.

The Siletz Tribe sought funding for the new multi-family affordable housing complex to reduce housing burdens for Siletz tribal members and others in the Salem community.

Half of the complex’s 40 units are reserved for residents whose income is below 80% of the median income, with rent payments not exceeding 30% of their household income. The remaining half of the units will be rented at an affordable rate for individuals living above 80% of the median income. These two measures help ensure housing is available to those who need it most, prevent families from being further burdened by rent, and allow residents to save for the future or focus on other financial needs.

Located on the corner of Blossom Drive in Northeast Salem, Kloshe Illahee Haws will feature various living spaces from townhomes and triplexes, a modest community-use facility with staff offices, and an outdoor greenspace. The south end of the property is reserved for a future multi-family apartment complex.

Construction of the infrastructure began with the contract awarded to North Santiam Paving in December 2023, and the remainder of the project is expected to be bid in the second quarter of 2024.

While this project is separate and unique from other endeavors in the Salem community, like the casino project, it serves as an example of how the Siletz Tribe and the City of Salem can work together to identify areas of need and elevate the level of services in the community.

As the Siletz Tribe works to help address the unmet housing needs within the City of Salem, the Siletz Tribe is hopeful the success of Kloshe Illahee Haws will serve as an example of how cooperation between the Siletz Tribe and the City of Salem can benefit the community.

Kloshe Illahee Haws demonstrates the potential for the significant benefits of ongoing cooperation between the Tribe and the City of Salem, including through the Siletz Casino Project and other projects that seek to bring jobs and revenue to the city of Salem. The Siletz Tribe remains committed to working with Salem’s City leaders to help mitigate the housing crisis and bring jobs and economic development to the community.

The Siletz Salem Casino Project Takes Center Stage at Tribal Town Hall

In early November, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians hosted an exclusive town hall for enrolled Tribal members on the progress of the Siletz Salem Casino Project. Chairman Delores Pigsley updated members from the Salem and Keizer communities on the project authorization timeline, the economic benefits of the project, and how casino revenue will help enhance the lives of Siletz Tribal members.

The townhall started with an overview of the Siletz Salem Casino Project, emphasizing its significance as a transformative force for the local economy. The project is a unique opportunity to invest in the local Salem community, and local small businesses will play a significant role. During the two-year construction phase, the project will generate about 2,300 jobs and $141 million in wages, stimulate $492 million in economic impact and produce $54 million in indirect purchases or spending through supply chains in the local economy.

Tribal members expressed overwhelming support for the Siletz Salem Casino Project. According to a survey conducted in April, 66% of the Salem and Keizer communities support the project. Support has grown steadily from 57% in 2017, when we started testing public support.

So, how can you support the project?

Sign the petition – Over 3,100 people have signed the petition supporting the development of the Siletz Casino Project! If you haven’t already, please sign the petition. And please encourage your friends and family to sign it, too!

Sign up for important updates – Sign up to receive important updates about the project and learn more opportunities to support the Siletz Casino Project!

Like and share – Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to know about the latest updates to share with your friends and followers!

Siletz Tribe Donates nearly $250,000 to State, Local and County Charitable Organizations

Since 2001, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has made a difference in the lives of our Native American communities and non-profit organizations. To date, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has contributed more than $21 million to organizations within the Siletz Tribe’s 11-County Service Area in Oregon engaged in education, health and public safety, addiction prevention and treatment, housing, arts, environment and natural resource preservation, cultural activities, historic preservation, and other charitable purposes. We are delighted to play a part in supporting and uplifting our community through these charitable contributions. The positive impact of these partnerships continues to resonate throughout the heart of Oregon and Native American communities.

In 2022, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund supported 112 nonprofit groups across Oregon with grants totaling over $ 800,000. We are proud to continue our tradition of giving back to our community in 2023. In August, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Fund distributed nearly $250,000 to 46 state, county, and local organizations. These contributions supported cultural activities, education services, healthcare services, public safety organizations and historic preservation activities.

For a complete list of recipients and the official press release from the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, click here.

Community Support for Siletz Casino Project Continues to Grow

The latest data is in, and it’s clear that the overwhelming majority of folks in Salem and Keizer are entirely behind this exciting venture. According to a recent poll conducted by DHM Research, 66% of residents fully support the Salem Casino Project, and this enthusiasm spans all sorts of different demographics.

It’s remarkable how unwavering the support has been since the project was first announced. In fact, it’s gained even more backing over the years, rising from 57% in 2021 to a solid 66% in 2023. Meanwhile, opposition to the project has dwindled to just 30% of area residents. It’s genuinely heartening to witness such strong backing from the community.

Even when Governor Kotek recently voiced opposition to any expansion of tribal gaming, it didn’t seem to dampen the spirits of Salem residents. A whopping 69% of those surveyed believe that Kotek’s stance on gaming shouldn’t be a reason to oppose the casino project. People are seeing the bigger picture and recognizing the tremendous benefits this project can bring.

This 180,800-square-foot entertainment, gaming, and hotel facility is projected to generate a staggering $231 million in gross revenue. The real excitement lies in the 1,200 full-time equivalent permanent living-wage jobs the project will create for Salem. That’s a massive boost to the local economy and a real game-changer for so many families.

But it doesn’t stop there. During the two-year construction phase, the project is estimated to generate around 2,300 jobs, contributing a massive $141 million in wages. In total, we’re looking at an economic impact of $492 million and an impressive $54 million in indirect purchases or spending through supply chains in the local economy. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.

The Siletz Tribe is committed to sharing the prosperity of this project with the community. Their unprecedented revenue-sharing agreement received a big thumbs-up from those surveyed. With 25% of the net revenue going to State and local governments, including the City of Salem, and a generous 50% to other Oregon Tribes for community-based projects and programs, they want to make a positive impact across the board.

Remember the added benefits of modernizing the roads, public transportation, and water systems surrounding the property. The plans also include constructing affordable housing units in the area – a thoughtful gesture showing the Tribe’s commitment to improving the community. This project is a real game-changer, serving as an anchor for further investment in North Salem.

We are so grateful for the Salem community’s steadfast support of the Siletz Casino Project. The support is overwhelming, and the potential for growth and prosperity is truly exciting. With so much to look forward to, it’s no wonder the folks in Salem and Keizer are all smiles regarding this incredible project!

Fact Sheet: Public Sentiment

July 14, 2023 – In April 2023 the Siletz Tribe enlisted DHM Research to conduct a survey of 600 Salem and Keizer area residents to determine public sentiment about a local casino. To download click here.

Salem and Keizer Community Support for the Siletz Casino Project on the Rise

For Immediate Release
DATE: June 12, 2023

June 12, 2023 – SALEM, Ore.— New data shows that a substantial majority of Salem and Keizer-area residents support the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indian’s plans to build an entertainment property in North Salem. According to a recent poll conducted by DHM Research, 66% of residents support the Salem Casino Project, including nearly every demographic group. North and northeast Salem residents are among the most supportive of the project. Furthermore, resident support for the project is higher than similar studies conducted in 2017 (57% support) and 2021 (64% support).

The 180,800-square-foot entertainment, gaming and hotel facility is estimated to bring $231 million in gross revenue. Residents surveyed are particularly optimistic about the 1,200 full-time permanent living-wage jobs the project will bring to Salem. In addition, during the two-year construction phase, the project will generate about 2,300 jobs and $141 million in wages, stimulate $492 million in economic impact and produce $54 million in indirect purchases or spending through supply chains in the local economy.

Those surveyed also support the project’s unprecedented revenue-sharing agreement that will benefit the state and local government and every participating Tribe. In its gaming proposal, the Siletz Tribe is committing to distribute 25% of the net revenue to State and local governments like the City of Salem, and 50% of the net revenue to the other eight Oregon Tribes to support community-based projects and programs.

“We have a unique opportunity to create thousands of jobs, generate millions in economic growth in Salem and uplift the lives of Tribal communities across Oregon,” said Dee Pigsley, Tribal Council Chairman, The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. “The Tribe is grateful for the deep and consistent support the Salem and Keizer community has shown for the Siletz Casino Project, especially on the heels of Governor Kotek’s statements opposing all expansion of tribal gaming.”

In addition, respondents support the world-class entertainment and tourism the project will bring to Salem. Project plans include a 180,800 square foot casino with 2,000 gaming devices and 45 table games. The property will also feature a 4-star full-service hotel with 500 rooms, 64,000+ square foot multi-purpose event center, pool, spa, plentiful dining options, nightclub and sports bar.

Another reason those surveyed support the project is the significant opportunity to support services for tribal members and the Salem community. The Siletz Tribe plans to use the project’s revenue to fund child welfare services, health clinics and educational programs for tribal members. Additionally, plans include significant modernizations to the roads, public transportation and water systems surrounding the property and the construction of affordable housing units in the area. Serving as an anchor development, the property will also drive additional investment in North Salem. The facility will be built on the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indian’s trust property, located off Interstate 5, exit 258, Portland Road.

“It’s clear there is enthusiasm in the community for the casino project. We look forward to entering into good faith negotiations with the governor to move this project forward,” Pigsley said.

Governor Kotek’s recent opposition to any expansion of tribal gaming had little effect on the opinion of Salem residents. An overwhelming majority (69%) of residents believe Kotek’s position on gaming is a poor reason to oppose the project.

Support in the Salem community has not wavered since the project was initially announced. In fact, support for the project has increased from 57% in 2021 to 66% in 2023. Meanwhile, opposition for the project has fallen to just 30% of area residents.

To learn more about the federal authorization timeline see: https://www.siletz.org/fact-sheet-siletz-casino-project-authorization-timeline/

###

Research Methodology

From April 20 – 26, 2023, DHM Research conducted a survey of registered voters in Salem and Keizer. The purpose of the survey was to assess familiarity with and support for the Siletz Casino Project over time, including messaging about the project.

About the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a confederation of many different tribes of western Oregon. In the 1800s, Siletz ancestors were removed from their homelands and relocated to the Siletz Reservation on the coast. While the Siletz Tribe’s headquarters is located in Siletz, Oregon, the Tribe has operated government offices in Salem, Portland, Eugene, Lincoln City and Siletz for over 40 years. To find out more about the project, visit www.siletz.org.

About DHM

DHM Research has been providing opinion research and consultation throughout the Pacific Northwest and other regions of the United States for over 40 years. The firm is nonpartisan and independent and specializes in research projects to support public policy making.