The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe and Tunica-Biloxi Gaming Authority have announced that they will assume full management of their Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana.
The decision formally ends a partnership with the Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, which managed the property for five years. During that time, Paragon’s debt was reduced by more than two-thirds and outstanding debt was refinanced.
Additionally, numerous employee benefits were reinstated, including the 401k match, bonus program, annual raises and offering a minimum wage above the required state minimum. Due to these and other achievements, Tunica-Biloxi officials said the tribe expects to be debt-free in seven years.
Marshall Pierite, chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, stated, “The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is grateful for the management and leadership Mohegan Sun has provided the tribe. This has been a true nation-to-nation collaboration and we will continue to work with Mohegan Sun for the overall benefit of Indian Country to ensure the growth, empowerment and benefit of our sovereignty for generations to come.”
Mohegan Chairman James Gessner noted, “This has been a great business partnership built on understanding and the mutual respect of our tribal journeys. We look forward to continuing our work together on national issues and making Indian Country stronger and safer for all indigenous people.”
