Tribe closer to Elk Grove casino

A BIA executive rejected an appeal that wanted to put a stop to a casino site’s land from being placed into a federal trust.

US.- A Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) executive has rejected an appeal from Stand Up for California! that wanted to stop the future casino’s land from being put into a federal trust. The decision that was made on Monday represents a step towards a new casino in the state.

Wilton Rancheria Chairman Raymond “Chuckie” Hitchcock said that the appeal was a small hurdle for the tribe’s attempts to be self sufficient. “This decision solidly confirms the placing of land into federal trust was valid and that we have every right to continue forward with our economic development plans. This was another attempt to cloud our land into trust process by Stand Up for California! and card rooms. So, I’m ecstatic for that (dismissal of the appeal),” he said, as Elk Grove Citizen reported.

On the other hand, director of the organisation that is against the proposal, Cheryl Schmit, said that the dismissal doesn’t change anything, as all of their arguments are preserved and will be amended into their complaint in federal court. “The BIA can’t just thrust a casino into an urban community willy-nilly. In this instance, the BIA did not follow federal laws and regulations. A dismissal of the administrative appeal does not damage any of our arguments going forward.”

The Wilton Rancheria bought the 35.9 acre plot in February 2015 via partner Boyd Gaming Corporation for US$36 million in order to build an entertainment facility with casino, spa, an events space and a fitness center.