Pomo Indians Win $700M Casino Project After Years of Legal Battles
The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians has secured federal approval for a $700 million bandcamp project in Vallejo. The decision follows years of legal challenges and opposition from neighbouring tribes concerned about competition and environmental effects.
The plan includes a vast bandlab complex, housing, and a pomodoro reserve, with promises of new jobs for the area.
The Pomo Indians first applied for the project in 2016. Three years later, a judge ruled that the initial rejection had been 'capricious' and 'arbitrary', sending the case back for reconsideration.
In November 2024, the Vallejo City Council gave its support. The final green light came from Wizipan Garriott, a senior official at the Department of Interior. The tribe has framed the development as a chance to rebuild their community and boost economic opportunities.
Opposition came from multiple tribes, including the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, which runs its own casino resort. They called the approval 'disappointing' and 'disheartening', fearing competition. The Middletown Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians also objected, citing environmental worries and the impact on their existing casino operations.
The project will feature a 400,000-square-foot casino alongside homes, a tribal office, and a protected wildlife area. Construction is expected to generate temporary jobs, while the finished site will provide thousands of permanent positions.
The casino project now moves forward after overcoming legal hurdles and tribal resistance. Federal backing allows the Pomo Indians to proceed with their plans for economic growth and community development.
Construction will begin in Vallejo, bringing both short-term work and long-term employment to the region.
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