Casino doesn’t reflect community’s values

Published 12:55 am Friday, October 3, 2008

When I read about the “proposed” (seemingly already a done deal) casino/theater/restaurant-/parking lot/destination spot near the city of Snoqualmie by the Snoqualmie Tribe, I was astounded and disappointed by the lack of logic and any real concern for community values. Astounded that neither representatives for the city or the Tribe regard quality employment or local lifestyle of value. Disappointed that money, once again, will be the hallowed goal.

The Snoqualmie Tribe representatives say they need a “foothold” for employment, health and services for their 1,200 young and old. They say the casino, etc., would not be a scar or seen from various locations. They say if the city cooperates, it would benefit. They say the casino, etc., would not have glaring neon lights and sacred Mount Si would be in view. They say the idea “wasn’t a very good taste in their mouths,” but other options were eliminated. They say they want comments and input from the local community.

To the last statement, it is very clear that the local community (maybe not their representatives) is very much against a casino in the neighborhood.

The words and statements do not provide consolation for the reality of the situation. Yes, the Snoqualmie Tribe does need economic stability, but at what cost to the Valley’s community lifestyle? Where manufacturing jobs would provide greater opportunity for their youth – higher wages and future employability – service-type jobs lower the standard of living.

The casino, etc., will have to be “seen” from I-90 to let those occupants in those 900 cars know exactly what residential street it is near. The casino’s all-night lights (especially in the parking lot) and noise will be seen and heard by all who live within view of the sacred Mount Si. Mount Si will not be seen from the theater or casino (casinos do not have windows – they would distract the customers).

Yes, the casino, etc., will be a moneymaker for the Snoqualmie Tribe, but crime will increase, wildlife habitat will disappear and local peoples’ homes’ value will diminish.

Apparently city of Snoqualmie and Tribe representatives have not truly considered what their members need or value. There are other solutions: i.e., another casino, etc., location, or another business alternative.

Jenny J. Bardue

Snoqualmie