The Tejon Indian Tribe has reached a key milestone in its plan to build a US$600 million Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, creating more than 4,900 jobs at the base of the Grapevine south of Bakersfield, according to the tribe.
The tribe has signed a tribal-state gaming compact with Governor Gavin Newsom allowing it to operate up to 3,000 slot machines. Newsom also determined that the land to be held in trust for the tribe by the federal government is eligible for gaming.
“From the start of our relationship with the United States government in 1851, our Tribe has fought for a homeland for our people. Today, Governor Newsom made that dream a reality by moving the Tribe closer to the promise of self-determination through economic development and prosperity for its 1,200 members,” commented Chair of the Tejon Indian Tribe, Octavio Escobedo III.
“This is a historic day for the Tejon Indian Tribe and we congratulate them on today’s announcement,” said Chairman of Florida-based Hard Rock International Jim Allen. “We look forward to working with the State, the Tribe and Kern County officials to create over 4,900 jobs as we bring our unique brand of casino entertainment to the region.”
Source: GMB
