Island Enterprises, Inc.

Squaxin Island Tribe Announces Major Hotel & Conference Center Development in Olympia

Olympia, WA — The Squaxin Island Tribe, through its economic arm,
Island Enterprises Inc. (IEI), is proud to announce plans for a 350-room hotel and
expansive conference center at the site of the former Olympia City Hall. This project
will be a catalyst for economic growth, cultural preservation, and community investment,
strengthening the Tribe’s economic sovereignty while bringing long-term benefits to the
Olympia region.

A Homecoming Rooted in Stewardship

The Squaxin Island Tribe, the People of the Water, has stewarded the Olympia region
since time immemorial. The Steh-Chass people, who lived along the shores of Budd Inlet,
nurtured the land and waters in harmony with nature. Following the Treaty of Medicine
Creek in 1854, they were forcibly relocated to Squaxin Island, yet their deep connection
to Olympia has never wavered.

“Olympia is our home. Having an economic presence here is critical to sharing our
story, honoring our ancestors, and ensuring future generations remain connected to
this land,” said Kristopher Peters, Chairman of the Squaxin Island Tribe. “This
project is an opportunity for the Olympia community to learn about our history and
experience the deep cultural significance of this land through our art, storytelling,
and continued stewardship.”

Addressing Olympia’s Greatest Need

Olympia is the capital of Washington State, yet it lacks the necessary hotel
accommodations and conference facilities to support its role as a center for government,
business, and tourism. Experience Olympia and Beyond, the region’s destination marketing
organization, has identified a conference center as the number one need for Olympia’s
economic growth. This new facility will fill that gap, bringing increased tourism,
business events, and economic opportunities to the area.

Project Details

• 350 guest rooms designed to offer the highest-quality accommodations
  in Olympia.
• 20,000 square feet of meeting space, providing a much-needed venue
  for corporate events, state functions, and large gatherings.
• A premier destination restaurant, making the hotel a top choice for
  business and leisure travelers alike.

This facility will be designed to be the finest lodging in Olympia, with its meeting
space and destination restaurant setting it apart as the first choice for both business
and leisure travelers.

Investing in a Thriving Future

The Squaxin Island Tribe has long been a committed partner in Olympia’s economic and
social well-being. This hotel and conference center will continue that tradition by:

• Creating hundreds of jobs during construction and hotel operations, prioritizing
  tribal and local hiring.
• Boosting Olympia’s role as a regional tourism and business hub, attracting visitors
  and conferences to the area.
• Providing new opportunities for local businesses, ensuring economic benefits extend
  throughout the community.

Addressing Historical and Community Considerations

The Tribe has completed its environmental assessments, historical reviews, and cultural
evaluations to ensure that the project respects Olympia’s heritage. A historic survey of
the existing building has also been conducted. While the structure could marginally be
considered historic, the cost to modernize it to meet contemporary standards is
impractical. Tribal historic experts have reviewed the site and determined that moving
forward with new development is the best path.

Additionally, the new hotel and conference center will feature Squaxin artwork and Coast
Salish design, ensuring that every guest experiences the beauty, wisdom, and enduring
presence of the Squaxin Island people.

“Everything we do is for the benefit of all beings,” said Aleta Poste, IEI Board
Chair. “This project is more than economic development—it is a way to honor our
ancestors, serve our people, and give back to the land and community that has always
been our home.”

Next Steps

The project is currently in the development phase, with key steps including:

• Submitting land into trust applications with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
• Completing environmental and regulatory reviews.
• Developing architectural and construction plans.

“This project is a renewal—of our presence, of our commitment to this land, and of
our role as stewards of Olympia’s future,” said Peters. “We invite the community to
stand with us, to learn with us, and to grow with us as we build a future that honors
our past.”

Learn more:
Island Enterprises, Inc. | Elevation| Native Sun Grown | Squaxin Island Tribe

For more information about this project and ongoing tribal initiatives, please contact:
Ray Peters
Intergovernmental/Council Liaison
Island Enterprises, Inc.
Squaxin Island Tribe
rpeters@squaxin.us.