Judge rules on Chumash land-into-trust lawsuit
Opponents of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians are claiming victory in their land-into-trust lawsuit.

Preservation of Los Olivos and Preservation of Santa Ynez challenged a Bureau of Indian Affairs decision to acquire 6.9 acres for the tribe. But the Interior Board of Indian Appeals said the groups lacked standing.

Judge A. Howard Matz vacated the IBIA ruling in a July 9 opinion. The groups now say they will be able to reverse the BIA but the tribe believes it will prevail.

The parcel is located across the street from the tribe's casino.

Get the Story:
Judge orders new review of Chumash annexation (The Santa Maria Times 7/17)