Reservation Area: 1,500 acres Tribal Land: 1,500 acres Tribal Enrollment: 251 (1997) Community: Prior Lake (tribal
headquarters) Number of Residents: 517 (1995)
BRIEF HISTORY/BACKGROUND
The reservation was formed through appropriations by the US government in 1886 and 1891. The Shakopee Mdewakanton were affiliated with the Lower Sioux Reservation until 1969. Today, the community is independent.
Governance
Type of Government: Representative government through the three- member Tribal Business Council consisting of a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and secretary/ treasurer. Additionally, the community has established a five-member gaming commission and a General Council which consists of all community members over 18.
Election Process: The General Council elects the Business Council and the Gaming Commission. Those not living on the reservation may vote by absentee ballot.
Employment (1995)
Labor Force: 105
Unemployment: 70%
Economic Development
Tribal Businesses: Casino (Little Six Inc.), Dakota Convenience Mall, Dakota! Meadows Campground, Dakota! Sport and Fitness Center,
and South Metro Credit Union.
Other Businesses: Shakopee Travel
School Attendance
Public Schools for reservation children are located in Prior Lake and Shakopee.
Enrollment (1997-1998):
Prior Lake: 43
Shakopee: 98
Health Care (1994)
Contract Health Users: 466
Casinos
Number: 1 - Mystic Lake/Little Six
Casino, Prior Lake