Editorial: Caution on Rumsey Band casino expansion

Monday, June 11, 2007  

"The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians showed off expansion plans this week to expand the Cache Creek Casino Resort to a "world-class destination resort." The proposed expansion includes 467 additional hotel rooms and 27 hillside casistas, new restaurants and retails stores as well as a new conference center and spa and swimming facilities.

The $200 million expansion is designed, according to Tribal Chairman Marshall McKay, to accommodate the surging demand of clients and business groups looking for an overnight stay at the casino.

That makes sense. The casino has become a notable destination for many not solely interested in gaming. It offers quality entertainment and great restaurants. Soon there will also be a golf course.

The problem now, as it has been in the past is location. The casino can be accessed by a two-lane road which winds through the Capay Valley. We understand plans are under way to widen the road and provide different avenues of access. Our concern is the amount of expansion threatens to ruin the very things which make the Capay Valley a place to visit and relax.

We favor casino expansion, but we urge caution. McKay and his predecessor Paula Lorenzo have long demonstated their concern for keeping the valley a special place and we trust their efforts will continue."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Casino expansion must be done with caution (The Woodland Daily Democrat 6/10)