Native American tribes have long been stewards of their land, leveraging it for economic development to align with their cultural traditions and the modern economy.
Today, as tribes continue to build expansive resorts, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and entertainment districts, the question arises: What comes next? How do tribes stay ahead of the curve and allocate resources efficiently as business landscapes shift? How can they repurpose current assets to create authentic and profitable experiences?
These were the focal points at the Maximizing the Highest and Best Use of Your Infrastructure and Land session during the Raving NEXT Conference, where Kelley Tucky, Vice President of Strategic Communications with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, moderated a panel of esteemed experts who shared their insights on navigating the future of tribal land use and economic development.
Honoring the past, building for the future
Tribal land use is deeply rooted in history, traditions, and a commitment to sustainability. Historically, tribes utilized their land for resource extraction, agriculture, and spiritual practices. Today, gaming and tourism have become primary economic drivers, but tribes also look beyond these industries to diversify their economies.
Chairwoman Erica Pinto of the Jamul Indian Village of California shared the remarkable journey of her tribe, which expanded from six acres of trust land to 178 acres. The acquisition, signed into law by President Biden, was a historic milestone for her tribe. “Growing up dirt poor with no indoor plumbing or electricity to now owning a blank canvas of land is life-changing,” she stated. To ensure the best use of their newly acquired land, her tribe engaged in extensive master planning and feasibility studies.
Master planning and visionary development
One of the key takeaways from the panel was the importance of master planning as a living document that adapts to changing needs. Jennifer Fleming, Owner & Principal at Rice Fergus Miller, Inc., emphasized that long-term vision and planning are crucial to sustainable development. She showcased a timeline from her work with the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, illustrating the continuous evolution of their economic enterprises. “Master planning isn’t just about building structures; it’s about setting up a vision that will last for seven generations,” she explained. By viewing your master plan as a living document that should be evaluated and updated over time, tribes can ensure their developments remain relevant and competitive.
Gaming as an economic engine and beyond
While gaming remains a powerful revenue stream, tribes must diversify their economies. Mike Bean, CEO of Desert Diamond Casinos, discussed the importance of expanding gaming enterprises by incorporating non-gaming amenities. “We need to create attractions that appeal to both gamers and non-gamers, ensuring that groups have reasons to visit our facilities,” he stated. His approach focuses on data-driven decision-making to determine which amenities will maximize revenue and guest experience.
As technology evolves and demographics shift, tribes must also consider digital gaming opportunities, sports betting, and online platforms to stay competitive. Infrastructure investments should be made with adaptability in mind to accommodate emerging technologies and future shifts in consumer behavior.
Governance and trust in economic expansion
Effective tribal governance plays a crucial role in economic development decision-making. Lael Echo-Hawk, Principal of MThirtySix, Inc., highlighted the necessity of building trust within tribal councils and ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in the process. “Tribal land is sacred and permanent. Decision-making isn’t just about business; it’s about preserving sovereignty and ensuring long-term sustainability,” she stated.
Chairwoman Pinto echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the balance between economic growth and cultural preservation. “We never lost sight of our culture. With our newly acquired land, we are creating spaces for economic growth, healthcare, and a cultural center to house our ancestors’ belongings,” she said.
Infrastructure and community development
Beyond economic opportunities, tribal leaders must also consider infrastructure investment to support long-term growth. Fleming pointed out that infrastructure—such as water, sewer, and energy—must be factored into any development plan, even though these investments often go unseen. “Capacity building and adaptability are key to ensuring that future generations can benefit from today’s decisions,” she advised.
The future of tribal economic development
As tribes grow their economies, strategic planning, technology integration, and community engagement will be essential. Tribes must continue to take well-calculated creative risks to achieve financial sustainability and balance investments and infrastructure growth with cultural preservation.
The panel discussion concluded with a strong message: Tribes must embrace innovation while honoring their heritage. By creating diverse revenue streams, engaging in thoughtful strategic planning, and investing in infrastructure, tribes can ensure their economic sovereignty for generations to come.
The conversation at the conference was a testament to the resilience and strategic vision of Native American leaders, proving that the best way to maximize land use is through a combination of tradition, innovation, and forward-thinking governance.
