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California City Officials Criticized for Supporting Casino

ROHNERT PARK, California – As reported by the Santa Rosa Press Democrat: "Rohnert Park City Manager Carl Leivo and the City Council are coming under fire from casino opponents for using city meetings and publications as "a bully pulpit" to promote the Graton Rancheria's casino.

"Critics complain that Leivo is using the city Web site and a city bulletin to publicize a legal opinion of an Indian gaming expert and help fend off the recall of two City Council members.

"…But Mayor Greg Nordin said Leivo and other council members who are on the hot seat for supporting the tribe are trying to counter misinformation, not promote the casino.

"…The controversy over Leivo's role arose after the city manager alerted the council of plans to circulate a national Indian gaming expert's opinion that public opposition cannot be the basis for stopping the casino.

"…The issue is volatile because council members Armando Flores and Amie Spradlin are facing an Aug. 24 recall election for their role in negotiating a $200 million agreement with the Graton Rancheria…"

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