Scotts Valley Band Defends Casino Project Amid Opposition from Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
Scotts Valley Band Faces Opposition Over Casino Plans
The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians continues to pursue its plan to develop a casino in Vallejo, California, despite facing ongoing opposition from another tribe in the region.
Allegations of Influence on Federal Decision
In March, the Department of the Interior (DOI) decided to pause its evaluation of whether the Scotts Valley Band’s selected site meets the requirements for gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). This suspension has raised concerns from the Scotts Valley Band, which claims that a rival tribe exerted influence over the DOI’s decision.
On July 15, 2025, the tribe filed a complaint alleging that the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation played a significant role in prompting the White House and the DOI to question their eligibility. The Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, which operates the Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, California, has historically opposed the Scotts Valley Band’s casino project.
The complaint asserts that the DOI’s hold on the decision was politically motivated, influenced by lobbying efforts from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. These lobbyists reportedly collaborated closely with state officials to block the casino initiative by the Scotts Valley Band.
In response, the Scotts Valley Band is legally challenging the DOI’s March decision and aims to move forward with its $700 million casino development.
Confidence in Legal Outcome and Future Prospects
The tribe has sought permission to build a casino in the area for nearly ten years. Despite setbacks, tribal leadership remains hopeful and believes that the law supports their position.
Shawn Davis, the tribe’s chair, shared his optimism in an interview with local media, expressing confidence that the courts will uphold the tribe’s rights. He emphasized their determination to continue with the project for the benefit of their community and surrounding neighbors in Vallejo.
“We won’t be deterred from moving forward and building a better future for our Tribe and our neighbors in Vallejo.”
Shawn Davis, Chair, Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians
Response from Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
Meanwhile, the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation has defended the Department of the Interior’s decision, stating that they had previously been excluded from key decisions. They view the March action by the DOI as a positive step demonstrating a genuine effort to engage in an open and transparent reconsideration process regarding the casino application.