Everyone seemed happy with the compact signed by Governor Schwarzenegger and the Aqua Caliente Tribe. Everyone that is, except for the Big Lagoon Racheria Tribe. They wanted to build a casino, on their property, that was based on a fragile coastal ecosystem area.  The area borders three state parks, and is home to much wildlife – including three species listed as officially Endangered. The tribe was sensitive to this problem, and sought a solution. They went into talks with Governor Schwarzenegger to come up with a plan that would make everyone happy.  

The governor negotiated a compromise that would relocate the tribe’s casino to Barstow – who really wants a casino. The tribe gets their casino, the state gets their land, and the workers get a provision that protects then as well. The press release from the governor’s office reads:  

These agreements are a creative solution for avoiding the construction of a casino on California's coast and alongside a State ecological preserve, while respecting the tribes' federal right to engage in gaming," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "These agreements also resolve the Big Lagoon Rancheria's longstanding lawsuit against the State and respond to the City of Barstow's active efforts to bring to that city the economic activity associated with an Indian gaming facility. This is a well-crafted plan that benefits the tribes, the city and all Californians; I commend all sides for their persistence in negotiating a fair solution to a difficult dilemma that has spanned three administrations. 

However, the new compact that the governor signed with the Aqua Caliente Tribe seems to be putting it in a bind. The compact with Big Lagoon went before the Assembly, who voted it down. It seems that the other tribe doesn’t want Big Lagoon to get their slot machine casino as it might take business away from them – and since they donate big money to many governmental pockets, it looks as if they are going to win and Big Lagoon is left out in the cold.

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