Lumbee Tribal Council approves historic gaming ordinance in 14-2 vote; Potential casino project hangs in the balance
By Staff Report, posted Oct 19, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com
The Lumbee Tribal Council voted 14-2 Thursday night to approve a gaming ordinance, setting the stage for a historic referendum that will allow the Lumbee people to decide the future of gaming for the Tribe. The vote came during a specially called meeting following the council’s regularly scheduled Thursday night meeting.
The ordinance now heads to the desk of Lumbee Tribal Chairman John Lowery, who has 10 days to certify the legislation.
Following certification, the ordinance is expected to go before Lumbee voters in a referendum 45 days later, with the official election date to be established by the Lumbee Tribe’s Election Board.
Tribal officials indicated that the referendum is expected to take place between Dec. 10 and Dec. 15, 2026.
The council’s overwhelming approval represents a potentially historic step toward gaming opportunities for the Lumbee Tribe. The referendum could have far-reaching implications for the Tribe’s economic development, future revenue opportunities and generations of Lumbee citizens.
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