Under the agreement, the Samish will voluntarily contribute payments to the city to compensate for revenue lost when the property is put into federal trust. The contributions include payments equivalent to the city’s share of property taxes on the 11.2 acres, plus compensation equal to retail sales tax and hotel/motel tax that would be applied if the new facility were taxed as part of the city.
The Samish Nation is planning to put a casino on the property, near the intersection of Highway 20 and Thompson Rd. Their plans could include related options including a restaurant, lodging and a gas station.
Leslie Eastwood, the Samish general manager, told the Council at an earlier study session that it’s in the best interest of the city and the tribe to work together.