The city council in Elk Grove, California recently voted 5-0 to approve a memorandum of understanding with the Wilton Rancheria, which has proposed a 0 million entertainment and gaming facility. The MOU is not an approval of the project, which requires federal approval. But it outlines ways the tribe and the city will work to reduce traffic and crime impacts from the casino and states once the casino opens and for its first 20 years, the tribe would pay about 2 million in recurring and nonrecurring payments to the city and community of Elk Grove.
The facility would feature a gaming floor with 2,000 slot machines and 84 gaming tables, plus a 12-story, 302-room hotel, fitness center and spa, outdoor pool, 30,000 square foot convention space/banquet area and fine dining restaurants.
Tribal Chair Raymond “Chuckie” Hitchcock said, “To have the council’s support in 5-0 for this MOU for the service agreement just shows we’re trying to do the right thing to be a community partner here in Elk Grove.”
Hitchcock also stated he appreciated the Elk Grove Police Officers Association support.
The council heard from more than 40 speakers prior to the vote, including 30 who supported the casino, 13 against and one neutral. Supporters noted the potential economic benefits for both the Elk Grove community and the tribe, including 1,750 permanent jobs and hundreds of construction jobs.
Opponents expressed concerns about the location of the proposed casino near a future outlet mall and two schools. Others addressed concerns over crime, drugs and gambling addiction.
Mayor Gary Davis stated, “It’s going to interject a tremendous amount of energy into that part of the community, it’s going to be a catalyst for the mall, it’s going to be a catalyst for that corridor. If this project moves forward, I think that an MOU will only enhance the tradition and history and the ability to continue to do in our city and be what we’ve always been.”
