Tribal Enterprises, such as those owned and operated by the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, have a direct impact, not only on the Tribe but on the economies of Barron County, Burnett County, Polk County and Douglas County, as well as the State of Wisconsin. Direct expenditures in the form of wages to the numerous employees, and purchases of goods and services from various supplies and industries bring an increased measure of vitality to the area.
The St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, own and operate a variety of Tribal Enterprises including; St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake, St. Croix Turtle Lake Hotel, St. Croix Casino Danbury, St. Croix Casino Danbury Hotel, St. Croix Lodge Hotel Danbury, Eagles Landing Campground in Danbury, St. Croix Casino Hertel Express in Hertel, St. Croix Casino Express Convenience Store & St. Croix Tribal Smoke Shop in Hertel, Fourwinds Market in Siren, and Fourwinds Express Convenience Store in Siren as well as many commercial rental properties including Southwinds Plaza in Siren.
There is a common misconception that Native American Tribes operate completely free of tax. However, tribally owned businesses, such as the Tribal Enterprises of the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin and their employees are subject to Social Security and Medicare Taxes like any other business. In addition, non-Native employees and Native American Employees not living on the reservation are subject to both federal and state withholding. Lands owned by the St. Croix Tribe outside of trust are “fee-lands” and are subject to the property taxes that support municipal infrastructure and school districts. Consequently, Tribal Enterprises and Governments make major contributions to state and federal tax revenue both directly and indirectly.
The St. Croix Tribal Enterprises support local tourism and welcome visitors to northwestern Wisconsin. The Tribal Enterprises of the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, in particular the gaming and related hotels and ancillary facilities, by location and design, have moved aggressively and successfully to attract visitors to northwestern Wisconsin. The Tribal Enterprises spend millions of dollars annually on marketing, advertising and promotions. The three Casino complexes attract about 250,000 unique visitors who make almost 1.5 million visits annually and contribute greatly to supporting local economies, business partners and families.
