Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation Advances Plans For Future Casino Development With Support From SIGA

Press Release

April 14, 2026

Battlefords, Saskatchewan – The Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man (MGBHLM) First Nation will host an update on its exciting Casino and Resorts economic development project on Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 1:00 pm at The Ridge Interpretive Centre, Battlefords, Saskatchewan.

The approximately $100 million project, which includes an investment of $60 million from MGBHLM First Nation, will see the relocation and rejuvenation of the Gold Eagle Casino, hotel and convention centre during phase one of the plan. This relocation project is fully supported by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), allowing the MGBHLM Casino and Resorts Limited Partnership to move forward confidently with project planning and community engagement. Further investment, and amenities, will follow with phase two of the project, bringing unique entertainment and cultural facilities.

“Today marks an important and proud moment for Mosquito, Grizzly Bear’s Head, Lean Man First Nation and for the entire region,” said Chief Tanya Stone. “This project represents years of vision, planning, and commitment from our leadership and community. We are grateful for the continued support of our Elders, leadership, BATC, FSIN, and our partners at SIGA, City of North Battleford, Indigenous Services Canada and the province. This development is more than a facility — it is a long-term investment in our people, our economy, and our future. We are building something that will create opportunity and lasting benefits for generations to come.”

The project team was honoured to lead a consultation and collaboration workshop to gain direction from community Elders in early April. Elders encouraged the project team to design a space that reflects the community and culture, using natural wood grains, and glass to let in the light and nature surrounding the development. Elders suggested that an area to honour past Chiefs and historic artifacts, and use of the Cree and Nakota languages would create a cultural connection.

The Project design and amenities will help to meet the Nation’s economic development goals, while also providing an opportunity for the city of North Battleford, the province and First Nations in the region to participate and benefit.

“This marks an important milestone for Indigenous economic development in Saskatchewan. SIGA’s continued leadership in the gaming industry has necessitated a new, modern facility in North Battleford,” said FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. “We commend the Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation for its leadership and collaboration with the Host Tribal Council and the local community. This project will support employment and provide lasting economic benefits for First Nations and the region.”

“SIGA’s mandate has always been to create meaningful employment for First Nations Peoples, generating positive revenues for our communities, and supporting economic development that benefits our shareholders and the larger province for generations to come,” said SIGA Board Chair Tammy Cook-Searson. “The relocation and rejuvenation of Gold Eagle Casino in partnership with MGBHLM First Nation speaks directly to that mandate. SIGA is fully committed to supporting MGBHLM as they move this project forward, and we look forward to the unique building, which will follow in our tradition of our other SIGA Casinos of providing world-class First Nation hospitality and being a premier entertainment destination in the province,” said Chief Cook-Searson.

“The rejuvenation of the Gold Eagle Casino represents an extraordinary opportunity to reimagine what a SIGA Casino can be, not just a place to visit, but a true tourism and entertainment destination that draws guests from across the province and beyond, said SIGA President & CEO Zane Hansen. With hundreds of construction jobs and long-term positions on the horizon, and the potential for well over half a million visitors annually, this development will have a transformative economic impact on North Battleford and the surrounding region. We are committed to ensuring the new Gold Eagle Casino becomes a landmark destination, while staying true to our culture and traditions with seven First Nation owned and operated casinos across the province,” said Hansen.

“Congratulations to MGBHLM First Nation on this exciting $60 million economic development Casino and Resort announcement. A rejuvenation project that will relocate the Gold Eagle Casino, hotel, and convention centre in Battleford,” Minister Responsible for Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan Jeremy Harrison said. “SIGA is a trusted partner in the operation of casinos in Saskatchewan, and the Government of Saskatchewan has confidence in their ability, in collaboration with MGBHLM First Nation, and the City of North Battleford, to ensure the long-term success of the Gold Eagle Casino.”

“Supporting economic development is essential to create shared opportunities and a resilient local economy. We are grateful for the confidence this proposed economic investment by Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation represents in the City of North Battleford. We recognize that this significant development will involve many important steps and will require collaboration and consultation with the City and our residents, including zoning amendments and the establishment of service agreements. City Council and Administration are committed to working closely with the MGBHLMFN Project Team to ensure the development aligns with our shared vision and meets the needs of our entire community,” said Mayor Kelli Hawtin, City of North Battleford.

The MGBHLM First Nation is in the final stages of closing a land acquisition transaction with the City of North Battleford; the acquisition will be completed in the coming days. The land is located along Highway 16 West, and south of the existing Riverview Community. The purpose of the acquisition is for the relocation of the Gold Eagle Casino. Later this spring residents will receive more information on the proposed project and have an opportunity to attend an open house information night to ask questions.

According to current plans, phase one of the casino, hotel and convention centre project alone, is expected to 350 construction job and 400 long term positions, while generating millions in new annual tourism revenue, and attracting more than half a million visitors each year.

Future phases of the development on the site are also being considered, to add commercial and community infrastructure and continue to advance the Nation’s long-term economic diversification strategy.

Media, partners, and other guests are invited to join us at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 14 at The Ridge to hear about the project, view an updated rendering and enjoy some coffee and bannock. A media scrum will follow the event.

Media Contact:

Carey Hyndman

chyndman@creative-fire.com

306-291-4236

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