Temecula's Lawsuit Against Civil Rights Violator Pechanga Tribe Could Have Statewide Implications

Some people say, let the courts decide. Pechanga may have to open it's books as part of the lawsuit brought by the City of Temecula.

The Press Enterprise has a nice article on this situation, it's a good opportunity for citizens (or, as some Pechanga tribal people call us, "normal people") to comment on the situation too.

In February 2008, California voters approved tribal casino-expansion deals that supporters said would ensure aid for surrounding communities.

The agreements for the first time created a process for tribes, Inland cities and counties to negotiate payments to cover off-reservation impacts such as extra police, increased traffic and other expenses.


Temecula City Council Says: Pechanga Owes the City $2 Million

The dispute centers on a March agreement between the tribe and city. It calls for the tribe to pay the city at least $2 million annually to cover the city's casino-related expenses, such as police.

In addition, the tribe agreed to contribute $10 million to improve an Interstate 15 interchange near the casino.

The city expected the tribe to pay $2 million by June 30. But the tribe contended the agreement wasn't finalized until talks with Riverside County concluded. Nice, the city and county are two separate entities, the tribal council is trying to link them. But, the tribe also installed the slot machines BEFORE the agreement was completed.

Citizens of Temecula should stand shoulder to shoulder with their elected officials. Simply REFUSE to patronize the casino and restaurants and CALL Pechanga and tell them that you are not coming until they settle with the city. That way, the tribe will KNOW why their revenues are suffering. Pechanga lost a lot of "good karma" when they brutally terminated over 25% of their tribe and then, laid off 800 employees. Time for that karma to come around, don't you think?