Buena Vista Rancheria announces grand opening for long-awaited casino

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

A sign for Harrah's Northern California, owned by the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. Photo: Harrah's Northern California

The Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians will open its long-awaited casino in California in May.

Harrah's Northern California is a 71,000 square-foot facility in Amador County, approximately 32 miles southeast of Sacramento, the state capital. The casino features 950 slot machines, 20 table games, a full-service restaurant and three eateries.

According to a post on social media, grand opening weekend runs from May 17 through May 19. "We cannot wait to officially join this wonderful community - see you soon!" the post read.

The tribe has been pursuing the casino for more than a decade. Opposition at the local level resulted in four trips to two different appeals courts during that time.

The most recent decision came from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. The tribe's case was so strong that the judges didn't even bother to hold an oral argument before confirming that its trust lands can be used for a casino.

Following the victory, the tribe partnered with gaming giant Caesars Entertainment to bring the Harrah's brand to northern California. A groundbreaking took place in April 2018.

D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals Decision

Amador County v. Department of the Interior (November 27, 2017)

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