In New York and the Shinnecock Indian Nation has reportedly inked an agreement with American casino operator Hard Rock International that could one day see it bring a gambling-friendly facility to the southeastern end of Long Island.

According to a Thursday report from the online news domain at Newsday.com, the 660-member tribe only received its federal recognition in 2010 but has long held an ambition to open a resort casino as a way to advance its economic agenda through greater tribal employment and revenue development.

Further foundation:

The Shinnecock Indian Nation reportedly told the news domain that the signing of the ‘fully vested’ alliance, which moreover involves developer Tri-State Partners, followed the earlier approval of its gaming-related structures, rules and objectives by the United States National Indian Gaming Commission. The tribe purportedly moreover declared that it now hopes to develop ‘a world-class entertainment destination’ that will create ‘hundreds of jobs and a revenue stream’ and allow it to ‘further its inherent sovereignty.’

Compact pursuit:

Newsday.com reported that the Shinnecock Indian Nation already holds a Class 2 gaming license from the New York State Gaming Commission that gives it the right to operate video gaming terminals and bingo parlors on its sovereign reservation near the Suffolk County community of Southampton. The source detailed that the tribe is now hoping to sit down with state officials in order to agree a compact that would allow it to run much more lucrative gaming tables and slots at a property situated either on tribal lands or an approved offsite location.

Enduring examination:

However, the New York State Gaming Commission reportedly told Newsday.com that it has yet to meet with the Shinnecock Indian Nation as it is in the midst of an official enquiry ‘to determine the economic feasibility and overall impact of granting additional casino licenses downstate’. Although the state approved a constitutional amendment in 2013 that expanded full casino gaming to four non-tribal upstate locations, the southern half of the state so far only features the slots-only Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel and Resorts World Casino New York City facilities.

Reportedly read a declaration from the New York State Gaming Commission…

“No decision will be made until that study has been completed and thoroughly reviewed.”

Cooperation call:

For its part and the Shinnecock Indian Nation reportedly released a statement in which it asked the state ‘to come forward and work with us’ on a casino plan that would allow both parties ‘to put away the ghosts of the past and a history marred with broken promises, theft and suffering.’

The tribe’s release reportedly read…

“In these troubling times everyone is seeking economic growth and development. Together we can make a brighter future for the Shinnecock Indian Nation and the citizens of New York.”