Casino concerns surface in debate over Mescalero Apache land swap
A proposed 330-acre land exchange in Las Cruces, New Mexico, drew strong pushback amid speculation the site could eventually host a casino, despite tribal leaders saying no such plans exist.
A community meeting on a proposed land swap between the State Land Office and the Mescalero Apache Tribe drew an overflow crowd in Las Cruces, New Mexico, with most concerns centred on the possibility of future casino development.
Public Lands Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard said she has not made a decision and wants input before approving the exchange, which would return 330 acres of ancestral land to the tribe. The land would remain under local zoning until federal processes concluded.
Rumours of a casino dominated the session. Tribal council president Thora Walsh-Padilla said no development plans exist, adding that reopening the tribe’s 2015 gaming compact to pursue another casino is “not a desirable option” and that any facility would compete with the Inn of the Mountain Gods casino already operating on tribal land. She noted the parcel’s rough terrain and limited infrastructure would also complicate large-scale development.
Residents remained sceptical, raising concerns about traffic, noise and commercial expansion near neighbourhoods. State Rep. Doreen Gallegos warned that any move toward a casino would trigger significant opposition, even if cultural use of the land would be welcomed.
A second public meeting is planned as the commissioner weighs the proposal.
