Lumbee Tribal Council Approves Gaming Ordinance by 14-2 Vote

The Lumbee Tribal Council approved a gaming ordinance in a 14-2 vote during a special meeting, advancing a regulatory framework for potential tribal gaming operations. The measure, designated CLLO-2026-1015-04, now heads to a public referendum after certification by Tribal Chairman John Lowery within 10 days. Tribal Attorney Joshua Malcolm indicated the vote could occur on December 10 or December 15.

The ordinance creates two distinct entities: the Lumbee Gaming Commission to regulate operations and the Lumbee Gaming Authority to manage them. Each board consists of five members, with appointments divided between the Tribal Council and the chairman. The commission requires at least two tribal members initially, rising to three by year three; its members serve three-year terms. The authority mandates that three of the five directors must be tribal members serving four-year terms.

Referendum Requirements and Council Debate

Under the tribal constitution, the ordinance takes effect unless rejected in the referendum with at least 30% voter participation among eligible members. This marks the second direct vote on gaming for the tribe. An earlier June 23 referendum saw approximately 62% of members reject a proposed constitutional amendment authorizing gaming, according to reporting by World Casino News.

Councilman Larry Soles introduced the motion, seconded by Councilman Carrington Locklear. Tribal Council Speaker Alex Baker defended the process after amending the motion to include public hearing comments as an addendum. Baker stated: “The Tribal Council has done its duty by carefully considering this ordinance, listening to our citizens, and making the decisions necessary to move the process forward. Now, this question belongs to the Lumbee People.”

Councilman Harold Smith and Graylen Mitchell opposed the measure, citing insufficient time before the holidays for review and ongoing revisions. The ordinance establishes a foundation that could support a proposed casino resort in Robeson County but requires additional state authorization for Class III gaming via compact. A separate clean water ordinance referendum is set for December 3, with regular tribal elections on November 17.

Reporting: World Casino News

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