By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – When the Seneca Nation of Indians broke ground last week for a Buffalo casino in the city's Cobblestone District, nation leaders talked about buying even more property.
Seneca Trasurer Maurice John was very clear at the ground breaking ceremonies outside the former H-O Oats Building -- part of the nine acres of Cobblestone land the Senecas already purchased. John said they will be purchasing more adjacent property.
"The Seneca Nation has been here, as far as we are concerned, forever. We are here to take back nine acres. Hopefully, we will get more land," John said.
Seneca President Barry Snyder confirmed that they will probably buy more city land in the Cobblestone District.
"Well, that will always be a part of it whether it is this year or next year," Snyder said. "We are looking to expand our land base and our opportunities for some type of business development."
Treasurer John says the Senecas have a deep history along what was once known as Buffalo Creek, and it is their chance to reclaim what was once theirs.
"Buffalo Creek, we are back. We are going to be here forever. This land will be tax free forever," John said.
Tax-free forever means the city won't be collecting revenues, and leaders are now hoping that other developers commit to creating new business around the Seneca property that will strengthen the city tax rolls and economy. WBFO News asked Buffalo Mayor-elect Byron Brown how he feels about the Senecas possible purchase of even more downtown land.
"I certainly think there will be some limits." Brown said. "I think the project area will be defined. I think it will have to come clear what the actual project area is. Once that project area is defined I think, land purchased after that fact would not necessarily be considered sovereign land."
But Brown says he is not reluctant to give up more property to the Senecas.