California: Scotts Valley Casino Project Raises Concerns

A project proposing a casino by the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians continues to gain traction in California. The project with a $700 million price tag recently picked up speed after a major approval, yet the debate about its impact on communities in Vallejo intensifies.

Department of Interior Greenlights Scotts Valley Casino’s Land to Be Taken Into Trust

Native American Tribes usually require taking land into trust in cases where they are interested in developing a business, such as a casino for example. This is the case outside of Reservation lands, where Tribes do not have authority, considering their federally recognized status.

The case of the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians is no different, as ahead of developing its proposed Scotts Valley Casino, the Tribe has to take the land required for the project into trust. This hurdle was cleared as the Department of Interior recently granted the Pomo Indians approval to take the 160-acre site, which would be used for the proposed Scotts Valley Casino, into trust.

Besides the casino itself, the massive casino project proposes the development of Tribal housing, a Tribal administration building, as well as required parking and other necessary infrastructure. The approval of the Department of Interior followed another green light by the US Bureau of Indian Affairs. In January, the latter signed off a Finding of No Significant Impact and at the same time issued a Final Environmental Assessment for the proposed Scotts Valley Casino project.

Opponents Share Their Concerns Regarding the Proposed Casino

As is usual, the project has supporters and opponents. While some people support the proposal, highlighting the benefits it will bring such as a boost of tourism and local businesses, as well as additional tax proceeds and new jobs, others are rather skeptical. Opponents of the proposed casino fear its impact on local communities, warning about a potential uptick in crime and other associated unlawful activities that may follow.

Jamie Barnhart, a Las Vegas resident, who was recently interviewed by The Times-Herald, spoke about the good and bad things a casino may bring. Growing up in Sin City, the woman has seen the two sides of casinos: the significant economic benefits and harm. Barnhart acknowledged that while Vallejo has seen struggles lately, such a large development may significantly benefit local communities and benefit the local economy. However, she remained cautious, saying that unless “not handled properly,” the project may spill into crimes and harm.

Paula Conley, a Vallejo resident, was also concerned. For several years, the Vallejo Police Department has been understaffed and facing financial difficulties. “It’s been proven that there is a 100 percent markup in calls-for-service where you have gambling. We don’t need more of that,” Conley said.