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San Diego Tribes Move Forwards with Casino Plans

CALIFORNIA – As reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune: "For the first time since California voters legalized Nevada-style gambling on Indian lands, two tribes are negotiating with San Diego County to reach agreements that are required before they can break ground on casinos.

"There does not appear to be a limit on what the county can ask from the tribes, which means it has wide latitude to request promises and money to offset the anticipated off-reservation impacts of casino development.

"In Northern California, where tribes have voluntarily negotiated deals, two counties will get about $100 million over a number of years for increases in law enforcement, fire protection and other public services, such as welfare and mental health counseling.

"…During three months of talks, they said, they have been identifying problems and requiring the tribes to take care of them. But they have not asked the La Posta and Santa Ysabel tribes for financial compensation.

"Seeking cash payments is still a possibility, but the county has not determined what the costs might be, said Claudia Anzures, the county attorney who is leading the negotiations.

"The two agreements, which are expected to be considered by the county Board of Supervisors by year's end, could set the framework for how future casino projects are approved.

"County officials in Northern California said the opportunity to offset casino impacts was so important that they hired outside attorneys who specialize in Indian issues to help them negotiate the deals…"

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