Governor
Brown unfortunately made a bad decision. Per the LA Times, “Gov.
Jerry Brown approved a plan for two tribes to open casinos away from their
ancestral lands, a move that he said would create jobs and help local
communities. But critics say the
plan could lead to a massive expansion of gambling in California.” Here
is a link to the rest of the LA Times
article on his recent decision: LA Times blog
Here are the actual letters sent by the Governor:
This
does not bode well for the Joshua Tree Casino. However, the conditions cited by Gov.
Brown in his decision letters describe situations quite different from Joshua
Tree. Links to his full letters of approval are below, but here are some
excerpts (underline added for emphasis):
·
“A large tribal population will directly benefit
from the gaming facility.” (The 29
Palms Band is very small.)
·
“The gaming facility is supported by both Madera
County and the City of Madera.”
(Joshua Tree residents have come out in great numbers against the
Casino.)
·
Each tribe “has a significant historical connection
with the land.” (This does not seem to be the case in Joshua Tree.)
·
“The gaming facility has increasing public support…” (Not in Joshua
Tree!)
·
“The
facility will be located within a sports-and-entertainment zone created by Yuba
County.” (There’s no situation like
that in Joshua Tree.)
Here are the actual letters sent by the Governor:
