LAKE COUNTY — The State Assembly approved Senate Bill 89 Thursday that ratifies the tribal gaming compact for Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake.
Assemblyman Wesley Chesbro who represents Lake County amended the bill during special session to include the compact because, if the Senate approves it next week, it will immediately create jobs in Lake County, according to a press release from Chesbro”s office.
“Because of the Tribe”s agreements with the developer, the legislative ratification of this compact will trigger the release of the funding and will provide immediate construction jobs in Lake County,” Chesbro said. “This means that Lake County residents can begin working at decent paying jobs before Christmas.
“Moreover, upon completion of the Tribe”s gaming project, the Tribe will create between 200 and 300 much-needed full-time jobs ? with benefits. Because Lake County is presently experiencing a 17-percent unemployment rate and last month the Konocti Harbor Resort closed, costing the county 800 jobs, it was imperative to ratify the compact as soon as possible.”
The tribe has been working closely with the county and the community in the preparation and planning of its gaming project, Chesbro”s office reported. The Lake County Board of Supervisors supports the tribe”s effort to open the casino resort as soon as possible.
During the Assembly debate on the bill, Assemblywoman Noreen Evans, who represents Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties, spoke in strong support of the compact, reiterating the immediate need for ratification so that the project can break ground before Christmas, Chesbro”s office reported. The Assembly approved the amended bill 68-0.
