The District of Squamish is asking the Squamish Nation to work with the town's planning committee on the proposed development of a gaming centre on Highway 99. The Squamish Nation is currently in negotiations with Boardwalk Gaming and Entertainment Inc. for a gaming hall that would involve a bingo, artisans' gift shop and approximately 100 slot machines in a 20,000-square-foot facility. Since the centre would be located at Valley Drive and the highway, it would act as a prominent gateway feature to the community. The district showed it was not keen on such a landmark when it rejected the B.C. Lottery Corporation's proposal to build the mini-casino in the municipality if it sat within sight of Highway 99. The corporation turned to the Squamish Nation's roadside land instead.Although it is now out of district hands, Chief Gibby Jacob said any concerns could be passed along to Squamish Nation in writing.On Tuesday (April 15) council unanimously approved a response to Jacob requesting the planning department work with Squamish Nation "to ensure the form and character of the development is consistent with other significant projects in the district."If earlier comments by the Squamish Nation's head of project development and negotiation, Toby Baker, are any indication, the suggestion will be well received.In a March interview with The Chief, Baker said District of Squamish residents will not be directly consulted on the matter but the district will be involved to a certain degree."Through the district we have agreed that we will look at joint opportunities for participation in an advisory panel on design. We will look at maybe some social investments that can be made in our community and to the broader community to address any potential issues."He also said the building would not detract from the town's appearance."We have been assured and we will be working with the operator to design an attractive facility that puts on display the coastal themes around the community's culture, and it will blend well with Totem Hall. It's going to look far from a blight of an entry point into the District of Squamish. No one desires that."The district is also requesting that Squamish Nation remain open to comments from the community "including social implications" of the facility-an issue Coun. Patricia Heintzman also said would need to be addressed.Mayor Ian Sutherland seemed optimistic about cooperation between Squamish Nation and the district."They have committed to working with us to make it as positive as possible for the community," he said.Jacob's letter suggested the gaming centre would actually benefit the community, stating it will provide "valuable job opportunities" for 35 to 40 people in the Squamish Valley. He said it would also provide resident with a new form of entertainment and enjoyment.Squamish Nation will have a formal vote on the centre before the end of the year.
