Text of Senator Charles Schumer's Letter to Ms. Aurene Martin, Secretary of Indian Affairs

Dear Ms. Martin:

I am writing today to express my strong opposition to the plans of the Shinnecock Nation to build a high-stakes bingo hall and casino in the Town of Southampton, NY. The Shinnecock Nation is currently a state recognized tribe and is applying to become a federally recognized tribe, which would be necessary if it desires to operate legal gaming on their land.

The parcel of land on which the Nation wants to build their gaming facilities lies on the bluffs along the Peconic Bay, on a narrow winding road in the midst of a residential neighborhood. The addition of gaming to the area would create massive traffic problems and could cause harm to the surrounding woodlands and bay.

The local government in the Town of Southampton has come out in opposition of the plans of the Shinnecock Nation. Furthermore, public opinion seems to be against new gaming as well. The residents of Southampton do not want their idyllic environment hurt by the added traffic, congestion and noise of a gaming facility. The local town government will also be burdened with providing extra security for the casino as well as fighting the higher crime rates that always appear around casinos.

While I have supported the casino applications of the St. Regis Mohawk and the Stockbridge Munsee, the Shinnecock Nation's desire to build gaming operations is a different situation. Once again, as the Shinnecock Nation applies to become a federally recognized tribe, I want to reiterate my opposition to any gaming facilities to be potentially built on their land. As always, my office stands ready to assist you in any way.

Sincerely,
Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator