Seneca Nation's investment arm makes telecomm deal

SALAMANCA, N.Y. (AP) – The Seneca Indian Nation's business development arm has made its first major deal since being formed to diversify the tribal economy beyond casinos and smokeshops.
Seneca Holdings LLC on Monday announced it has acquired a controlling interest in Washington, D.C.-based wireless and telecommunications provider CT COMM. Terms of the deal weren't disclosed.
CT COMM Chief Executive Kevin Slattery will retain the position in the renamed Seneca Telecommunications LLC.
The Seneca Nation formed Seneca Holdings in June 2009 and allocated $28 million over five years. The western New York tribe is trying to branch out as its traditional businesses face challenges from New York state, including efforts to tax reservation cigarette sales to non-Indian customers.