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California Tribal Casino Fuels Prosperity, Fears

SANTA YNEZ, California – May 20, 2001 –As reported by the L.A. Times: "A quick drive across the Chumash reservation here suggests a long, painful story.

"…But as the reservation--known affectionately to the Chumash as `the rez'--celebrates its 100th birthday this year, tribal officials are celebrating a sweet irony: The land--128 acres of steep hillsides and a periodically flooding creek--that was worthless enough to give to the Indians has become one of the most valuable chunks of real estate in the lush Santa Ynez Valley.

"Eight years ago the Santa Ynez Chumash followed the lead of tribes across the United States and opened a casino. With nearly 500 workers, it is now far and away the valley's largest employer. Slot machines and poker tables have afforded the tribe undreamed-of prosperity--but also have triggered the fears of neighbors who say the casino is growing too big, too fast and too far beyond local control.

"…Tribal officials contend they are the targets of cheap shots propelled by jealousy and fear.

"…Tribal officials are quick to point out they contributed more than $1 million to local charities last year.

"In the past three years, they say, they also have granted Chumash students $1 million in scholarships and now have a greater percentage of their young people attending college than any other California tribe.

"…The unemployment rate among the Santa Ynez Chumash is zero, according to tribal officials. Medical care is dispensed from a clinic built with casino profits next to the tribal hall.

"Times are good and promise to get even better. Under Proposition 1A, a ballot measure approved last year, tribal casinos in California had until Tuesday to increase their biggest moneymakers--slot machines--to a maximum of 2,000. By comparison, Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas has 1,628 slots.

"…The boom on the reservation hasn't been entirely welcomed by others in the valley, who believe casino patrons will clog country roads and strain local police and firefighters.

"Gail Marshall, the Santa Barbara County supervisor who represents the area, contends the tribe uses its status as a sovereign government to skirt environmental laws.

"…Tribal leaders say they are meeting all the requirements of the law and are trying to be thoughtful neighbors. They say their new parking garage will be partly hidden, tucked between a hillside and trees to be planted nearby. They also say they have pledged $300,000 toward increasing county paramedic services, and have promised to lobby the Legislature for a return of some casino revenues to Santa Barbara County…"

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