UPDATE: The Nez Perce Tribe held an urgent presentation this week at the Red Wolf Golf Club in Clarkston, emphasizing their commitment to being the best neighbor in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Elected officials from Asotin County, Nez Perce County, and local governments gathered for a two-hour session that showcased the tribe’s significant contributions to the community.
Tribal Chairperson Shannon Wheeler highlighted the tribe’s desire to collaborate with community leaders for mutual benefit. “When the tribe comes to town, we bring a lot to the community,” Wheeler stated emphatically, underscoring their role as the third-largest employer in the region, providing around 1,500 jobs.
The presentation detailed the tribe’s impactful history and their ongoing efforts to enhance local education and cultural resources. “We want to create partnerships in good faith with no ulterior motives,” said Nakia Williamson, manager of the tribe’s cultural resources program. This sentiment reflects the tribe’s dedication to fostering positive relationships with neighboring communities.
Currently, the Nez Perce Tribe is applying to place the land of Red Wolf Golf Club into trust, potentially paving the way for sports betting and card games to be integrated into the facility. This move aligns with their broader economic development strategy following their purchase of the golf club in 2019.
In addition to the golf club, the tribe has acquired the former Umpqua Bank building on Diagonal Street in downtown Clarkston. While plans for the bank site remain undeclared, it has been cleaned, signaling the tribe’s intent to revitalize the area.
At the conclusion of the presentation, local officials expressed their appreciation for the insights shared. “We won’t always agree on everything, but we can always work together,” commented Asotin County Commissioner Brian Shinn, reinforcing the importance of collaboration.
As community dynamics shift, the Nez Perce Tribe remains committed to creating a vibrant future through partnerships and economic growth. As they continue to navigate these developments, the tribe’s actions will undoubtedly impact the region significantly.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Nez Perce Tribe takes further steps to engage with local communities.
