"In the nine years since the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria first proposed building a casino and resort near Rohnert Park, the plan has been the subject of a failed City Council recall, an attempt at a countywide referendum and lengthy legal and political battles. It's also been through the Great Recession, the bankruptcy of its backer, Station Casinos of Las Vegas, and the administrative review of three different governors.

But in the end, given the political realities of Indian sovereignty, the outcome is as clear now as it was in 2003. It's going to happen. A major casino including up to 3,000 slot machines, 5,500 parking spaces and a 200-room hotel is going to be built just west of Highway 101.

This was driven home last week when Gov. Jerry Brown approved a gaming compact, the last major hurdle toward the beginning of construction. According to the compact, earnings from the 534,000-square-foot urban complex could exceed $400 million a year."

Get the Story:
PD Editorial: Making the best of a casino in our backyard (The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat 4/4)

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Graton Rancheria quiet on next steps for long delayed casino (4/3)