North Richmond ‘Sugar Bowl’ casino plans stall

January 21, 2010

EAST BAY – The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians, who plan to build a 225,000-square-foot casino in Contra Costa County, are seeking a new financial backer after the federal National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) found their management partner, Richmond Gaming, lied repeatedly and withheld information about its investors.

In a recently disclosed ruling last September, the NIGC commission voided the proposed contract between the tribe and Richmond Gambling on the basis it would give too much control and too big a share of casino revenues to the investors, and not enough for the tribe.

A settlement deal was reached with Richmond Gambling agreeing to rid its investors and allow a newly formed entity to be qualified for managing the casino operation.
Scotts Valley wants to build the casino on 30 acres along Richmond Parkway at Parr Boulevard. It will host 2,000 slot machines, table games, a restaurant and a 1,500-seat theater.

Eric Zell, spokesman for the tribe, said he had he not read the final agreement and could not comment at this time.

Return to California Casinos.