Casino Stalker | Opinion

Opinion: Mayors back Tohono O'odham off-reservation casino

Monday, September 26, 2011

"Recently, two mayors from East Valley cities opined that the West Valley resort project being developed on unincorporated land near our West Valley cities would “set dangerous precedents” and “alter the character of the West Valley.” We who actually live in and provide leadership to the West Valley have a very different view.

While we appreciate the generous advice offered by Mayors Hallman of Tempe and Lane of Scottsdale, we take exception to their statement of “facts” regarding the project. And frankly, we are offended that two mayors from affluent East Valley cities would take it upon themselves to criticize West Valley economic development.

We do agree with their assertion that “the Tohono O’odham Nation is a rightfully proud Native American community with a rich history and traditions.”

After that, their view of this project is taken straight from the opposition’s talking points, and amounts to nothing more than fear-mongering based on outright lies.

From the beginning, leaders from the Tohono O’odham Nation have engaged in open dialogue with state and local leaders, community groups and constituents."

Get the Story:
Bob Barrett and Adolfo Gamez: West Valley mayors support casino resort in Glendale (The West Valley News 9/23)