ATTENTION: BIA Confirms that Wichita-Caddo-Delaware Reserve Cannot Be Developed Without Approved Leases

The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Anadarko Agency, issued an order dated July 27, 2022, confirming that the Wichita-Caddo-Delaware Reserve cannot be developed without leases negotiated among the three tribes that jointly own the lands and approved by the agency. The order was issued in response to a plan by the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes to build a health and wellness center and to operate a gaming facility on portions of the jointly owned lands.

The agency’s decision states: “It is the decision of the Superintendent, Anadarko Agency, that operating any ventures on jointly owned land without an approved lease is invalid and without force or effect and no further action to implement or impose actions should be undertaken.”

The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes have 30 days to appeal the decision.

For the full letter, please click here: https://bit.ly/3BpDkCO