Due to surging cases of COVID-19 in Fremont County, and at the recommendation of Tribal health authorities, the Northern Arapaho Business Council today, November 6th announced the temporary closure of Tribal casinos and reduced public hours at some Tribal offices.
The Wind River Hotel & Casino and other Tribal gaming facilities will be temporarily closed beginning at 12:01 am Monday, November 9th, and continuing through November 30th. It is hoped the establishments can re-open on December 1st, if conditions warrant. Casino employees will continue to be employed, though some may temporarily transition into other roles during the closure.
“We’ve seen no indication the casino is a source of virus spread in our community, but Tribal health authorities have urged the Business Council to temporarily close these facilities due to surging case numbers in Fremont County,” said Chairman Lee Spoonhunter of the NABC. “This is a critical moment for the Arapaho people and all residents of the Wind River Reservation. If we don’t take responsible actions now – and if individuals don’t follow the guidelines and protect themselves and their loved ones – we risk losing to this virus even more of our sacred Elders, family members, friends and neighbors in the months ahead.”
Chairman Spoonhunter was diagnosed with COVID-19 early this week, but continues to experience only mild symptoms. He is in quarantine and continues to work on behalf of the Northern Arapaho Tribe.
Also beginning Monday, November 9th, some Tribal departments will be open to the public reduced hours in order to prevent people from congregating and protect against COVID-19. Other offices will temporarily be closed to the public or conduct business via telephone only.
Offices with reduced hours – including Enrollment, Finance and others – will be open to the public every weekday from 10 am to 2 pm. Critical departments and services, such as sanitation, food delivery, elder services and law enforcement, will not be affected.