Yolo County board criticizes casino expansion plan

Woodland, California – A massive expansion planned for the Cache Creek Casino Resort is getting some harsh criticism from the Yolo County Board of Supervisors.

The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians wants to add a 10-story hotel tower with 467 rooms and a 62,500-square-foot event center to its casino in the Capay Valley northwest of Sacramento.

But county supervisors approved a letter Tuesday saying the tribe’s environmental report understates the expansion’s effects.

They say the massive increase in the casino’s physical and environmental footprint would have a drastic impact on the scenic valley.

Supervisors fear the expansion will increase traffic congestion and deplete scarce groundwater. Extra employees will need more nearby housing.

The tribe has promised to help pay for any problems.