Matheson selected to lead Cd'A Casino

COEUR d'ALENE - Coeur d'Alene Tribal Council members have made a "preliminary selection" to offer Dave Matheson the position of chief executive officer of the Coeur d'Alene Casino and Resort.

Helo Hancock, the tribe's legislative director, told The Press Thursday of the council's direction in the hiring, but declined further comment.

"We will not make a formal announcement until the negotiations and terms are finalized," Hancock said.

Matheson previously held the CEO position for 13 years until 2006.

He will replace David LaSarte-Meeks who served as CEO for five years.

LaSarte-Meeks was hired in 2006 to replace Matheson, who was fired.

The tribal council recently decided against renewing LaSarte-Meeks' contract.

Scott Kramer, the casino's current CFO, has been serving as interim CEO until a replacement is named.

The casino employs about 1,150 people and recently underwent a $75 million expansion that created 98 hotel rooms and suites in two wings, a centerpiece pub with two natural amphitheaters, a 15,000-square-foot spa and a steakhouse.