Friday, 08 February 2008 01:10

School Board Against Buena Vista Casino

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The Amador County School Board quickly and unanimously rejected the Buena Vista Rancheria Casino proposal at its February 6 meeting, urging the CountyBoard of Supervisors to continue arbitration. Trustees noted that the casino’s commitments to Amador Country were minimal at best. Board member David Dutra says the offer to schools was a “slap in the face”, arguing that it consisted of the minimal amount owed through the current commercial developer fees. The board acknowledged that the battle to prevent the casino is a difficult one and the cost of doing so falls on the Amador County Administration and Supervisors. It was suggested by School Superintendent Mike Carey that a county-wide referendum could offset the county’s expenses. However, such a vote of the people might not be timely enough, as the casino decision could go to a state-appointed arbitrator shortly. In such a case, the arbitrator’s decision would be final.