The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians continues to operate its gaming facilities in southern California, with some restrictions, according to Chairman Jeff L. Grubbe.

Here is the text of Chairman Grubbe’s March 16, 2020, letter:

Dear Guests:

The health and safety of our guests and team members is of utmost importance to us here at Agua Caliente. We are addressing the COVID 19 global pandemic seriously. We are monitoring the ongoing developments and maintaining our facilities in accordance with recommended best practices as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We are maintaining flexibility in our approach to this unprecedented circumstance and are adjusting and updating our practices as new information is received.

The decision to remain open or closed altogether is a difficult one. As one of the largest employers in the Coachella Valley, our employees depend on us to provide for their families, especially during this difficult time. The Tribe is currently developing work place policies to address individual team member needs based on their obligations to their families. Although our gaming facilities are experiencing unprecedented reductions in revenue, we will strive to keep our facilities open as long as possible.

We take pride in the cleanliness of our properties and have implemented the following recommended best practices:

* Increasing the frequency of cleaning and sanitizing of all areas, with a focus on all surfaces including door handles, elevator buttons, handrails, front desk, restaurant counters, and dining tables and other frequently touched areas,

* Introducing multiple “Clean Carts,” allowing team members to sanitize slot machines continuously and provide hand sanitizer to guests,

Adding more hand sanitizer stations and dispensers at both Agua Caliente Casinos in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs,

* Continuously sanitizing slot machines at both properties and upon a guest’s request,

Making hand sanitizer available at all table games,

* Maintaining social distancing standards within our properties such as removing every other chair at table games and seating guests at every other table in our restaurants,

* Working to reduce capacity within our properties to levels that allow us to exceed the recommend social distancing standards, and

* Aggressively educating our team members about the facts of COVID-19, including providing ongoing reminders of how we can exceed recommended sanitation guidelines.

In addition to the above efforts, effective immediately:

* The buffets at both Agua Caliente Casinos in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs are closed,

* All shows and entertainment at both facilities are postponed, and

* The Sunstone Spa at Rancho Mirage is closed.

We strive every single day to deliver an amazing guest experience. Now, more than ever, that includes our focus on your health and safety. We appreciate your loyalty.

Sincerely,

Jeff L. Grubbe

Chairman, Tribal Council

AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA INDIANS