The Catawba Indian Nation's former casino development partner has filed a lawsuit seeking damages of at least $125,000 for alleged property violations at the Two Kings Casino site in Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

Kings Mountain Land Development Partners (KMLD) claims the tribe committed multiple violations, including unauthorized land grading, removal of materials, and repeated trespassing on company-owned property. The lawsuit was filed in Cleveland County Civil Superior Court, with KMLD requesting a jury trial.

The dispute stems from a complex history between the parties. In 2018, the Catawba Nation purchased 17 acres from KMLD, owned by businessman Wallace Cheves, for the casino project. While the Department of Interior approved the land trust, the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) rejected the initial business arrangement, citing concerns about tribal benefits and Cheves' background in gaming operations.

Following the NIGC decision, the tribe paid Cheves $40 million for an additional 9.4 acres and secured easement rights for the casino development. The current lawsuit centers on alleged violations of these easement agreements.

The Two Kings Casino project, now partnered with Delaware North, has been operating a temporary facility since July 2021. Construction of the permanent $700 million resort began in June 2024, with phase one scheduled to open in early 2026. Initial plans include:

• 1,350 slot machines
• 12 live dealer table games
• A sportsbook
• Restaurant facilities

Future expansion plans call for:

• Increasing to 4,000+ slot machines
• 100 table games
• 400-room hotel
• Additional dining venues

Delaware North will manage the property's operations on behalf of the tribe once completed.

Related Articles

Previous Articles