Affinity Interactive, led by CEO Scott Butera, has announced the closure of Primm Valley Resort & Casino, the last of three iconic casino properties in Primm, Nevada, with the shutdown scheduled for July 4. This move is expected to result in the loss of 344 jobs, as reported by Fox 5 Las Vegas [1]. Butera defended the decision before the Nevada Gaming Control Board, citing ongoing financial losses and unsuccessful investment efforts, including upgrades such as a new sign and new slot machines, as reasons for the closure. He stated, 'It’s been losing money, and we’ve been investing a lot of money over the years to no avail' [1].
The closure has drawn criticism from the Primm family, with Cory Clemetson, president of Primm's landowner group and grandson of town founder Ernie Primm, expressing disappointment and emphasizing the family's commitment to exploring options to revive the properties. Clemetson stated, 'If the Primm properties go dark, so does the welcome they have provided over the decades,' and assured that the family is working 'tirelessly' toward a revitalized Primm [1].
The Nevada Gaming Control Board, represented by chair Mike Dreitzer, expressed 'grave concern for the community' and stressed the critical importance of the situation to the state, requesting good faith efforts from Affinity Interactive. Butera indicated that the company is 'working very closely with the landlord' and mentioned a 'potential suitor' who might revitalize the property, though no specific details were provided [1].
The closure of Primm Valley Resort & Casino follows the earlier shutdowns of Whiskey Pete's and Buffalo Bill's Resort & Casino, which closed in December 2024 and scaled back to special-event operations in July 2025. Primm has experienced a 'slow decline' over the past 15 to 20 years, according to an expert cited by Fox News Digital [1].
CONCLUSION
The closure of Primm Valley Resort & Casino marks the end of an era for Primm, Nevada, with significant job losses and community concern. While Affinity Interactive cites financial unsustainability, the Primm family and local stakeholders are actively seeking ways to revive the properties. The situation remains fluid, with potential for future developments depending on new ownership or investment.