The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and Santa Barbara County are near an agreement over the tribe's land-into-trust application.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has agreed to acquire 6.9 acres of land across from the tribe's casino. The tribe plans to use the property for a cultural center.

The county has agreed not to appeal the decision and the tribe has agreed to abide by certain conditions set by the county, including no gaming on the land. Negotiations have been going for four months.

Citizens' groups are still challenging the BIA's decision.

Get the Story:
Chumash, county move closer to agreement (The Lompoc Record 6/21)

Relevant Links:
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians - http://www.santaynezchumash.org

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