Recently in Catoosa, Oklahoma, where the Cherokee Nation operates the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, Cherokee Principal Chief Bill John Baker said relying on revenue from casinos alone is not good business for the tribe. “We’re looking at projects we can diversify with that will create literally thousands of jobs. We’re making sure these announcements we’re making are job creators to sustain our growth.”
Those announcements include a $170 million retail and hospitality development in Tahlequah, which will feature dining, entertainment and retail, located on land near the Cherokee Springs Golf Course, which the tribe bought in 2012. In addition, in August, the tribe’s entertainment unit began work on a $10 million casino project in South Coffeyville, just south of the Kansas border. That 17,000 square foot property will offer 300 electronic games, a bar, 50-seat restaurant and other amenities. Most recently, the tribe signed off on an $80 million deal with a national developer to bring shopping, dining and entertainment to the Hard Rock complex.
Cherokee Nation Businesses owns companies in the gaming, hospitality, personnel services, distribution, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology and environmental services industries. “Our expansion plans are focused primarily on building upon these diverse competencies and seeking greater vertical integration. These advancements further our commitment to expanding opportunities for Cherokee citizens in northeast Oklahoma. When the Cherokee Nation succeeds, so does all of Oklahoma,” noted Charles Garrett, executive vice president at Cherokee Nation Businesses.
He added, “Cherokee Nation’s business portfolio of tomorrow will be greatly diversified with business lines serving private and government clients. I believe that you will see the company incubate start-up companies, facilitate entrepreneurial ventures and expand its commercial real estate holdings.”
Shawn Slaton, chief executive officer of Cherokee Nation Businesses, said CNB employs nearly 6,000 people and brought in more than $715 million in revenue last year. “Growing our businesses helps us build upon our mission of creating quality jobs within the Cherokee Nation, while generating the resources to support the tribe’s programs and people. We are proud to be in a position where we can make such a huge contribution to the health and well-being of Cherokee citizens.”
