Conditional approval given for casino in Lloydminster
The province has given conditional approval to the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) for a casino in Lloydminster, a plan which could have implications for the Battlefords area.
The proposed casino would be operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) already has six casinos in Saskatchewan, including the Gold Eagle Casino in North Battleford. In a news release Don McMorris, minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority, said it represents “a continued partnership with our First Nations when it comes to a well-managed casino gaming industry for Saskatchewan.”
There are several steps ahead in the development process, including community consultation, approval by the City of Lloydminster, and an agreement between the province and FSIN to change the Gaming Framework Agreement.
Under the framework, 50 percent of a SIGA casino’s net profits go into the First Nations Trust. 25 percent flow into the local community through a Community Development Corporation. The remaining 25 percent go into the provincial government’s general revenue fund.