Forrest Tahdooahnippah, Chairman
Comanche Nation
Comanche Red River Hotel Casino – Devol, OK and Comanche Casinos in Cache, Devol, Elgin, Lawton and Walters
comancheredrivercasino.com / comanchenation.com
BENEFITS OF GAMING: Gaming revenue is one of the most important sources of revenue for the Comanche Nation’s tribal government. Gaming revenue funds many tribal programs, including law enforcement, tribal courts, elder services, job placement, land acquisition, burial assistance, substance use treatment, women’s shelter, student services, and child welfare services, to name only a few. As with any community, our citizens may face difficult life challenges – from natural disasters to health problems. The Comanche Nation uses much of its gaming revenue to provide support for those in need.
Gaming revenue also provides an immense benefit to the surrounding community. The Comanche Nation casinos employ almost 800 people in Southwest Oklahoma. The Nation’s casinos contribute millions to the local economy in terms of publicity, payroll, infrastructure and other investments. Most importantly, our casinos offer a fun and exciting experience for the members of the surrounding community. Our casinos offer a place to enjoy a great meal, spend time with friends, and potentially hit a jackpot.
GOALS & INITIATIVES: Our primary goal is always to provide a great experience for our patrons. To do that, we plan to continue to upgrade and expand our facilities. The Nation will be completing construction at our Cache Casino this year, and we look forward to offering a unique experience at the foothills of the Wichita Mountains. As Chairman, I would like to see significant upgrades to both our Comanche Red River Hotel Casino and to our Comanche Nation Casino in Lawton. I am also working towards having our Nation return to its roots and begin offering high-stakes bingo again.
I would also like to see us diversify our entertainment options to more non-gaming and family-inclusive options. My goal is for the Nation to build an event center for concerts, banquets, powwows, and other events. I also hope to add family-friendly amenities to the Comanche Red River Hotel.
LEGISLATIVE: The prospect of legalized gambling in Texas is a concern. Many of our patrons are tourists from Texas, and legalized state gaming could draw them away. Legalized online gambling is similarly a concern and competitive threat. However, Comanche casinos provide a unique experience, and we are working diligently to ensure that experience is unparalleled. The market for gaming continues to evolve and our team is working to stay on the cutting edge of the industry.
