The new agreement replaces a recently expired 2003 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which provided that the Tribe would contribute funding to the county to improve and maintain county-maintained roads, the provision of law enforcement services, and the provision of Kings County fire protection and emergency services.

Both sides appeared pleased with the new agreement.

“The County and the Tribe’s agreement is mutually beneficial, and we are proud of our cooperative relationship,” said Doug Verboon, Kings County Board of Supervisors Chairman. “From supporting law enforcement and fire services to improving the environment, and the economic development that supports our area, we believe this agreement is a win-win for Kings County and the Tribe.” 

Under the new agreement, the Tribe shall construct a new fire station and training facility on the northeast corner of 17th Street and Kansas. The Tribe will fund the station and assist with staffing costs, apparatus and equipment purchasing, and maintenance, plus utility costs. 

The Tribe will also assist the County with law enforcement, fire protection, emergency services, wastewater treatment, solid waste disposal, and other programs contributing to the community's betterment. The Tribe also agrees to widen the street and add turn lanes to improve Jersey Avenue's intersection and the Casino entrance to accommodate for increased traffic, following County requirements.

Under the agreement, the Tribe agrees to implement additional measures to reduce traffic volumes in and around the project, such as encouraging mass transportation for Casino patrons, increasing employee carpooling/ride-sharing, and exploring the future possibility of a regional bus stop.

“Our Tribe and Kings County will continue to have a cooperative partnership based on mutual respect and supportive actions,” said Leo Sisco, Chairman of Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi-Yokut Tribe. “We are excited to announce the expansion of the Tachi Palace property, along with a new fire station and support of the County’s public service initiatives.”

Also spelled out in the new agreement, the Tribe intends to pursue the following economic development projects:

• A 35,000 sq. ft., 2,500-seat event/bingo center:
• A new 120,000 sq. ft., 200-room hotel tower.
• Yokut Gas: Add 12 gas pumps and 12 diesel pumps to the existing station; a 6,000 sq. ft. convenience store expansion; 60 Class II machines; and a 3-car wash bay.
• Rancheria Housing: Add 200 additional homes.
• Conference Center: Add a 20,000 sq. ft. conference center attached to the Tachi Palace Hotel.
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities: Implement a 35-45% expansion in water flow, capacity, and treatment.

Future expansion of Tachi Palace Casino Resort is also planned and includes the following:

• Increase the current footprint of the Tachi Palace Casino to include additional gaming space, a 150-seat food and beverage area including a sports bar, and a new entrance.
• Add 1,000 additional Class III gaming devices.
• Add 1,200 asphalt guest parking lot.

The new agreement will commence December 1 after final approval by Tachi-Yokut members. The agreement runs concurrently with the term of the Tribe’s State Compact or until the project ceases to be open to the public, and the Tribe ceases to conduct Class III Gaming, whichever occurs earlier.