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The business development arm of the Colville Tribes has announced it is looking at a site between Pateros and Chelan for its latest economic development efforts, saying spot has the hallmarks of a new “flagship” resort for the tribes.

The Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (“CTFC”) said in a press release that it has completed a “preliminary review” of the site, “colloquially known as MA-18, [which] consists of over 640 acres located across the highway from Azwell, Washington, between Pateros and Chelan. The site features views of the Columbia River and easy access to Chelan and the rest of Okanogan County.”

“MA-18 has all the features we are looking for when it comes to economic development,” stated CTFC Chief Executive Officer Kary Nichols. “After discussing with our architects, we are confident that MA-18 could be the home to our new flagship resort, attracting business and tourism from around the Northwest with our state-of-the-art casino, golf course, and concert venue.”

The architectural plans also include 100 lots for residential development. “Housing is becoming increasingly scarce throughout the region and the country,” stated Nichols. “MA-18 gives us the opportunity to provide affordable housing for many families while also giving them access to all the great amenities we have planned for MA-18.”

CTFC operates casinos, Omak and Coulee Dam and near Chelan in Manson where ownership is “fractionated, with many individuals and entities owning some portion of the property,” the Aug. 6 release said. “CTFC holds a master lease to use and develop the entire property.”

“Fractionated ownership and frivolous lawsuits have made it impossible for CTFC to utilize the Manson property to its fullest,” reported Tony Posey, chief operating officer of Colville Gaming LLC. “MA-18 is owned almost entirely by the Colville Tribes, giving us greater flexibility and giving the Tribes a larger share of the profits.”

Profits from CTFC’s enterprises fund the Colville Tribes’ governmental programs, including forest management and firefighting efforts, which benefit tribal members and nonmembers throughout the region, the release said.

“Keep your eyes open in the coming weeks for first looks at our new projects,” stated Posey. “We look forward to the opportunity to bring more jobs, more housing, and more tourism to our community, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to our new resort.”