More than 200 people attended a public hearing on the proposed Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians casino in Richmond, California.
Most people support the project, according to news reports. They welcomed the prospect of 17,000 construction and casino jobs. "It's 17,000 jobs. That's 17,000 ways I can support my family without having to go to jail or kill someone," said the Rev. Michael Robinson, 27, The Contra Costa Times reported. The tribe wants to build a resort on 85 acres at Point Molate, on the Richmond waterfront. The project calls for a casino with 124,000 square feet of gaming space, two hotels, shops, restaurants, a conference center, housing, tribal facilities, parks and trails. If successful, the casino would be the second in the Bay Area. The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians operates a Class II facility less than four miles away in San Pablo. The Bureau of Indian Affairs released a draft environmental impact statement and environmental impact report for the project. Comments are due by September 23. Get the Story: