Lytton Rancheria Applauds Governor Newsom’s Opposition to Proposed California Casino Projects

The Governor’s Office also raised concerns about the expansion of gaming on lands not currently eligible for tribal gaming.Photo byKayshaonUnsplash

The Lytton Rancheria of California has expressed strong support for Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), urging the Department to halt the Shiloh Resort and Casino Project by the Koi Nation in Sonoma County and the Scotts Valley Casino and Tribal Housing Project by the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians in Solano County.

Governor Newsom’s letter reflects widespread concerns among tribal governments, elected officials, and local communities regarding these projects. The letter argues that the DOI is deviating from established procedures and important safeguards typically required for restoring tribal land and establishing casinos.

The Governor’s Office also raised concerns about the expansion of gaming on lands not currently eligible for tribal gaming, noting that the proposed sites are far outside the historical homelands of the Koi Nation and Scotts Valley Band. The letter emphasized that these projects seem to sidestep state authority, ignore tribal and community concerns, and stretch legal boundaries.

“We thank Governor Gavin Newsom for voicing his concerns,” said Lytton Rancheria Tribal Chairperson Andy Mejia. “These projects are being recklessly advanced without important safeguards, potentially leading to disastrous consequences for the local environment and communities. Both projects are opposed by the native peoples indigenous to these sites and are supported by tribes from outside the affected counties.”