The Cherokees settle up.

• Position: Western - Interview with Michell Hicks. - Interview - Statistical data

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was dealt a good hand in 2012. The state signed a 30-year compact with the tribe that allows table games with dealers at Harrah's Cherokee Casino and Hotel and opens the possibility of two more casinos on tribal land. Also, work was completed on the $650 million expansion of Harrah's, managed by Las Vegas-based Caesar's Entertainment Corp., doubling gambling space to 150,000 square feet and the number of hotel rooms to about 1,100. Both the compact and expansion mean more revenue for the tribe, though Principal Chief Michell Hicks won't say how much. He did talk with BUSINESS NORTH CAROLINA about how the Cherokees are investing their share in the community. The interview was edited for brevity and clarity.

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How has the addition of table games affected business at the casino and hotel?

They've helped increase revenue about 15% over last year. There are about 140 tables now and plans for more. There has also been an expansion of the demographics of our guests. We're seeing more men and younger men.

The tribe is planning a second casino in Murphy. What's the status of that project?

We expect to begin moving dirt in September, weather permitting. Construction is projected to take 18 months, but if all goes well it could open by the end of 2014. It's a $110 million investment and will include about 300 hotel rooms, a couple of restaurants, an entertainment venue and about 60,000 square feet of gaming space, which will include live dealers.

How many people are employed in the tribe's gambling operations?

We're at 4,600 employees, and it continues to grow. By this time next year, we should be around 5,000. When the casino in Murphy is finished, we should be up to 5,500. Some of our employees are commuting an hour and a half to work. We pay good wages--a dealer can earn $45,000 a year--plus benefits, which I believe are second to none in the state. That's helping us recruit and retain employees.

How has money from the casino been spent...