Morongo Band Opens New Operations HQ

NEAR CABAZON – The Morongo Band of Mission Indians opened the doors to its new administrative complex on the Indian reservation near Cabazon.

They began with grand opening celebrations which included speakers from several local government officials, a luncheon, and a traditional Native American song and dance.

Tribal chairman Robert Martin says the new building will combine all tribe operations into one central location.

“The economy, of course, affected us as it has any other business,” said Martin. “We’ve been able to continue the business. It seems to be that it’s hit the bottom and we’ve been leveling out. We’re working very hard to maintain that as well.”

The 67,000 square foot administrative complex sits behind the Morongo Casino Resort.

Tribal leaders say the new building will save money and further their efforts of going green.

“That’s a general philosophy of the tribe. We want to maintain costs no matter. Whatever we do in businesses and our tribal operations, the tribe agrees and believes in the philosophy of going green.”

Martin also says this new facility will help the tribe continue to be a major economic driver in and around the coachella valley.

“The tribe will go forward with its other plans that include more diversification.”

With a job force of 3,000 people, Martin says, the tribe remains an important part of the community for employment.

“We just feel this is the next step for the tribe to take and we’re very proud of it.”