Tribe, developer, environmental groups announce major shoreline deal

By John Simerman
10/20/2010 12:06:36 PM PDT

Link: http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_16387486


RICHMOND -- An Indian tribe and the developer of a planned billion-dollar casino resort at Point Molate have reached a deal with local environmental groups that calls for at least $48 million for shoreline land and protections if the casino rises, both sides announced Wednesday.

The deal ends years of litigation by a pair of environmental groups against the controversial plan to bring the state's first urban casino, along with a hotel, convention center, retail mall and night clubs to the Richmond shoreline. And it comes less than two weeks before Richmond voters will weigh in on the casino plan in a nonbinding advisory vote, Measure U.

Under terms of the deal, which was signed Tuesday night, the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians would provide $35 million for open space purchases; another $5 million to design and maintain those lands; $3 million more for preparatory work and easements; and $5 million to complete the Bay Trail and hillside trails.

More money would go to protection of open space in the nearby shoreline, at the port Terminal 4 and Yacht Harbor areas. The deal also calls for restoration of rare eelgrass beds and protection of more than 310 acres for open space on Point Molate. All of it is contingent on a casino -- the economic engine for the project.

"This is not possible for us to do in a lawsuit," said Robert Cheasty, president of Citizens for East Shore Parks. He estimated the agreement could be worth more than $70 million, saying the groups would seek matching funds that could escalate that number.

"When you have money, you draw money," said Cheasty, who called it "a major, major shoreline protection agreement."

Link to complete article: http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_16387486