One California Tribe supports the Governor’s opposition towards proposed casino projects

California Governor Gavin Newsome recently sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI). Newsome voiced his opposition toward proposed casino projects by the Koi Nation and Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians. The Lytton Rancheria Tribe of California has publicly backed Governor Newsom since his letter was sent to the DOI. There has been limited support but some local and state officials also oppose the projects. Scotts Valley casino project faces opposition from Solano County, Congressman John Garamendi, and Senator Alex Padilla. The Koi Nation’s casino plans have been met with resistance from the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, the Windsor Town Council, State Senator Mike McGuire, Congressman Jared Huffman, and Congressman Mike Thompson. Lytton Rancheria Tribal Chairperson Andy Mejia had this to say.

“We thank Governor Gavin Newsom for voicing his concerns about the Shiloh Resort and Casino Project and the Scotts Valley Casino and Tribal Housing Project,” said Mejia. “Both of these projects are opposed by the native peoples actually indigenous to these sites and supported by tribes from outside Solano and Sonoma Counties.”

What do Koi Nation and Scotts Valley have in mind for their casino projects?

Since 2016, the Scotts Valley of Pomo Indians has been pursuing the construction of a casino in Vallejo. This is a proposed $700 million casino resort that would include a casino, hotel, restaurants, and an entertainment center. Additionally, the Koi Nation of Sanoma County announced plans for the Shioh Resort and Casino back in September 2021. Their proposed project is a $600 million project that would be built just outside of Windsor. A spokesperson from the Koi Nation noted they are trying to preserve their cultural and historic integrity.

Governor Newsom asked the DIO in a letter not to move forward with either of the projects. He has concerns with these projects moving in a manner that would sidestep the state. They would also ignore the concerns of other tribal governments and the local communities. While Newsome has his doubts, the Koi Nation said their Shiloh Resort has been pursued under full accordance with federal law. Koi Nation believes that Governor Newsom’s opposition to their casino projects represents a fundamental misunderstanding of federal law. They are still open to an opportunity to meet with Newsome and work with his administration moving forward.