Casino Gambling Compromise Seems a Sure Bet
Years ago, Big Lagoon Rancheria proposed a casino on its land along the southern banks of Big Lagoon. However, the area was deemed critical by numerous government agencies and private environmental groups, which voiced concerns over the plan. The rancheria, led by Tribal Chairman Virgil Moorehead, has always maintained its right to build on that land, and steadfastly pursued plans despite layers of bureaucratic hurdles. Fast forward to last year.
In talks with state negotiator Dan Kolkey, a new, outside-the-box concept emerged for a partnership between Big Lagoon Rancheria and the Southern California-based Los Coyotes Band to be the first recognized tribes in California authorized to build casinos on non-trust land, in Barstow, a town of 23,000. Under a September gaming compact signed by Moorehead and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the 21-member tribe plans a 50,000-square-foot casino.
The proposal calls for two casinos on the 47-acre lot and separate operations. As part of the agreement, settling a six-year lawsuit with the state, the rancheria agrees not to build a casino on its tribal lands.
June 16, 2006
Posted By Hector Rodriguez
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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