SunRay Park’s Proposed Relocation Sparks Tribal Gaming Tensions in New Mexico
A contested license transfer to move SunRay Park & Casino from Farmington, New Mexico to a 200-acre site near Clovis has reignited tensions between commercial racinos and tribal gaming operators over access to Texas-based bettors.
Key Takeaways:
- SunRay Park & Casino plans move to Clovis aim to boost state revenue and racing industry.
- Tribal leaders criticize the move for potentially diverting tribal gaming revenues.
- Regulators prepare for public hearings amid industry and community concerns.
Casino Relocation Pits Racinos Against Tribal Operators
The New Mexico Racing Commission has moved the application through procedural review after earlier delays, and regulators say they must weigh projected state tax gains against potential harm to existing operators.
Proponents say the relocation would revive racing and add hotel and track infrastructure while generating new tax receipts.
Tribal leaders contend the proposal would siphon out-of-state revenues that underpin tribal services and employment.
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, Harry Antonio Jr., governor of the Pueblo of Laguna, wrote in an open letter to the New Mexico Racing Commission that the plan “presents not only a renewed threat to the Pueblo of Laguna’s economic stability, but a reckless attempt to expand private wealth at the expense of our ability to fund essential services for [tribal] communities.”
Zia Park and other regional venues have formally warned the commission the move could destabilize the market and divert both racing and gaming income.
Regulators Weigh Tax Upside Against Market Disruption
SunRay’s management says competition from compact tribal casinos has driven a steep revenue decline at its Farmington site. It maintains relocation is necessary to restore viability and could produce roughly $14 million a year in new state tax revenue while supporting a revived racing calendar, per Casino.org.
The debate unfolds against broader strain in New Mexico’s racino market, where recent consolidation — including GLPI’s acquisition of Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino — reflects efforts by commercial operators to shore up assets amid growing competitive pressure.
Regulators have scheduled a special hearing to take testimony and public comment before reaching a final decision, leaving the industry to reconcile economic development goals with potential redistribution of regional gaming dollars.
