NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — The new administration for the Seneca Nation of Indians is hoping to build on relationships with state and federal lawmakers.

President JC Seneca and tribal council members hosted a Western New York delegation summit Thursday at the Seneca Niagara Casino.

Seneca said they covered a variety of issues, including growing drug problems on tribal territories, law enforcement, land issues and the impact of their casinos on Western New York and the Southern Tier.

This comes as the Senecas and the state continue to negotiate a new gaming compact, required by the federal government. Those talks have been going on for roughly two years, but Seneca says there hasn't really been any engagement in the little more than 100 days since he took office. 

Both sides have agreed to extend the terms of the previous compact, which expired more than a year ago, quarterly. As part of that, the Senecas have continued to put 25% of their net slot machine profit in an escrow account. Spectrum News 1 asked Seneca if he would consider state Sen. George Borrello’s suggestion to stop setting aside money for New York until there is a new deal.

He said he's hoping summits like this will open up conversation before considering more extreme steps, but does not expect to continue paying the state at the same level. 

"They've had a good deal for over 20 years. I think we've overpaid that in regards to the exclusivity fee that we've been paying to the state for 20-plus years, so they've really gotten a good bargain,” Seneca said. “It's time for Seneca Nation to get the better deal, to get a good bargain for us and for our people.”

The current extension is up at the end of March, one day before the state budget is due. Seneca said he does believe they could expedite talks if he and the governor are able to personally negotiate face-to-face. 

A representative from the governor's office was there Thursday, as well as representatives from Reps. Nick Langworthy and Tim Kennedy's offices and state Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes' office. Republican state Sens. Rob Ortt and George Borrello, both who have casinos within their districts, were there in person.

The governor's office sent a statement to Spectrum News 1, saying: “Our Administration was represented by Deputy Secretary for First Nations Elizabeth Rule, and we look forward to a positive dialogue on their priorities.”