The Interior action will lead to an end of 58 years of “landless” status for the Tribe, marks a major milestone in the project to build a resort and casino in Elk Grove.
 
ELK GROVE—Jan. 20—The U.S. Department of Interior has issued a Record of Decision to place 35.9 acres of land in Elk Grove into federal trust for Wilton Rancheria, which will end nearly six decades of “landless” status for the Tribe and mark a major milestone in plans to build a resort and casino adjacent to the planned Outlet Collection mall along Highway 99.
 
“After 58 years without a home, our people finally will have land,” said Wilton Rancheria Chairman Raymond Hitchcock. “This has been a long and hard struggle. We now can tell our elders that their blood, sweat and tears will have been worth it.”
 
Hitchcock added:
 
“This marks a major milestone in our plans to build a resort and casino that will create vital, lasting benefits for the city, the region and our Tribe.”
 
The 1958 Rancheria Act terminated 41 California Indian Tribes, including Wilton Rancheria. After a protracted and tireless campaign by Tribal leaders, federal recognition was restored in 2009, making the Tribe eligible for mandatory land-in-trust. 
 
“This is a great day for Elk Grove,” said former Mayor Gary Davis. “The resort and casino will help the city prosper and provide a strong catalyst for the Outlet Collection mall. Together, they will bring lasting economic growth and benefits for our citizens and for the region as a whole.”
 
About Wilton Rancheria
Wilton Rancheria is the only federally recognized tribe in Sacramento County. In November 2011, the Tribe adopted its modern Constitution, and since that time, tribal leadership has worked to improve the lives of its members and positively serve the community from its offices in Elk Grove.


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Townsend Calkin Tapio Public Affairs
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