Fears of Indian gaming rock Bar-One lease negotiations

Thursday, June 11, 1998 | 11:55 a.m.

Bar-One Enterprises of Gardnerville and Canada-based Northstar Gaming are planning a multi-purpose events center at the fairgrounds that would include 200 slot machines initially and as many as 800 when fully developed.

In addition, Northstar has had preliminary talks with the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California about gaming on tribal lands southwest of the fairgrounds, just across the Douglas County line.

Bar-One Vice President Carrie Barone said she couldn't disclose whether she had talked with the Washoe Tribe about the possibility of a casino on tribal lands.

Nevada casino regulators say there have been talks about developing a compact between the Washoe Tribe and the state, but no application for a compact or license has been filed.

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1989 requires a compact before the tribe can operate gaming activities in Nevada.

Steve Bilyeu, chief financial officer for the Carson Station and Pinon Plaza, said Indian gambling would create an unfair market because the tribe doesn't pay taxes.

"When Indian gaming gets involved, they get some advantages we don't," Bilyeu said. "Presumably they can operate with a slimmer margin than we can."

Ormsby House General Manager Bob Cashell also questioned the proposed land lease between Bar-One and Carson City, saying a slot arcade would hurt existing casinos.

"My first impression is it's bad for the city and I'm adamantly against it at this point," Cashell said. "I don't want to fight a casino that doesn't have to pay the same stuff I do."

"Fine," said Barone, when told of comments critical of the lease. "Then give me some of the room tax or let me bond to build the events center."

Barone said gambling revenues will allow her to conduct charitable events and support 4-H and Future Farmer of America events at the $20 million center she plans to develop.

Mayor Ray Masayko said supervisors have long been aware of Barone's plan to have slot machines at the center, although the number recently increased from 200 to 800. He noted Barone would need a license from the state's Gaming Control Board.

Despite the last-minute concerns, City Manager John Berkich said he expects a final lease will be given to city supervisors Friday. The board is scheduled to consider signing the lease June 18.