Due to a surge in Covid-19 cases in Fremont County, Wyoming, the Northern Arapaho Business Council closed its Wind River Hotel & Casino and other tribal gaming facilities on November 9. They will remain closed through November 30. Officials said, “It is hoped the establishments can re-open on December 1, if conditions warrant. Casino employees will continue to be employed, though some may temporarily transition into other roles during the closure.” No layoffs, furloughs or pay reductions will be implemented, officials said.
Northern Arapaho Business Council Chairman Lee Spoonhunter noted there has been “no indication the casino is a source of virus spread in our community, but tribal health authorities have urged the business council to temporarily close these facilities due to surging case numbers in Fremont. This is a critical moment for the Arapaho people and all residents of the Wind River Reservation. If we don’t take responsible actions now–and if individuals don’t follow the guidelines and protect themselves and their loved ones–we risk losing to this virus even more of our sacred elders, family members, friends and neighbors in the months ahead.”
More residents of Fremont County, including tribal members, have died from Covid-19 than any other county in Wyoming.
Spoonhunter himself recently was diagnosed with Covid-19 but he has continued to work for the tribe while in quarantine and his symptoms have been mild.
Several tribal departments are operating with reduced hours, and some also have temporarily closed.
