The Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria has won a long-standing legal battle with the Northern California Butte County after a US District Judge issued a 17-page ruling in favor of the Indian nation. Mechoopda Tribe’s plan to build a casino in the area has been the root cause behind the conflict.
Tribal members have long claimed that they had been the first people inhibit Butte County and more particularly the Chico area. This is why, in 2000, they requested from the federal government that they were returned at least part of their original land.
In 2001, the tribe purchased a 625-acre parcel of land in Butte County and applied for having it taken into trust by the US Department of the Interior about three years later. In 2008, the Interior Department gave its approval. Apparently, Butte County was not on the same page and appealed the matter to the Secretary of Interior.
The official re-affirmed the original decision in 2014, providing a 50-page explanation for the conclusions made regarding Mechoopda Tribe’s right to have the land taken into trust on its behalf.
Tribal officials have said that 91 acres of the 625-acre parcel will be used for the construction of a gambling venue near the city of Chico in Butte County. According to the original plan, the casino would feature around 500 slot machines and 10 gaming tables. The actual gambling facility would spread across 42,000 square feet of land.
Commenting on District Judge Frederick J. Scullin Jr.’s decision, Sandra Knight, Vice Chairwoman of the Mechoopda Tribe, said on Monday that they are very pleased to have finally concluded a more than 10-year battle. Ms. Knight also pointed out that following the long-standing litigation and the costs and delays resulting from it, they are open to discuss a new casino plan, one that may differ from the original proposal.
Butte County officials and residents have opposed the construction of gambling venue for many reasons, mainly environmental ones. Proponents of the project, however, have pointed out that it would be an economic driver not only for the tribe and its members but also for the area as a whole.
