"We see a similar scenario playing out again in Napa County’s battle with the Wappo tribe and its quest for federal recognition. Rather than realistically assessing the current political environment and realizing that the odds greatly favor the Wappo tribe, Napa County is going all-out to defeat them.

The mantra is to “save the precious Ag Preserve” and the wine industry, which is certainly a commendable goal.

But a look back at history might show another way to be on the side of the winners, achieve the goal of preserving the valley, and provide a big boost to that half of the county which used to house the town of Monticello.

Napa County should approach the Wappo and seek a solution that could involve the county supporting their quest for recognition, in return for an agreement to forgo seeking any tribal land in Napa Valley."

Get the Story:
Bart Barthelemy: Napa County should negotiate with Wappo (The Napa Valley Register 11/13)

Related Stories:
Mishewal Wappo Tribe aims to regain federal status and land (10/30)
County seeks to rejoin Mishewal Wappo Tribe recognition case (10/17)
Opinion: Mishewal Wappo recognition will only lead to a casino (10/9)
Judge removes counties from Mishewal Wappo recognition suit (10/4)
Mishewal Wappo Tribe testifies at hearing on federal recognition (06/26)