After two decades of legal battles and negotiations, the Ione Band of Miwok Indians has officially started construction on its long-awaited casino project, Acorn Ridge Casino, located in Plymouth, California. This milestone marks a pivotal moment for the tribe, as the 60,000-square-foot casino will sit on ancestral land, fulfilling a dream that has been in the making for years. The location, situated about an hour’s drive from Sacramento at 17674 Village Drive, has been at the center of the tribe’s efforts since they began the process of reclaiming their ancestral territory in 2003.
In March 2020, the U.S. Department of the Interior completed the land transfer into federal trust for the tribe, officially making the 228 acres in Amador County tribal land. Shortly after, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a gaming compact, granting the tribe permission to build and operate a casino. The agreement allows for the installation of up to 1,200 slot machines, alongside table games, with the requirement that the casino adheres to state employment regulations.
A New Vision for Economic Growth
Sara Dutschke, Chairwoman of the Ione Band of Miwok Indians, quoted by ABC10, has envisioned the Acorn Ridge Casino as more than just a gaming facility. She sees it as an economic driver for the tribe, helping repay the costs incurred in securing the land’s trust status and providing ongoing benefits for tribal members. Dutschke has described the casino as a “boutique gaming facility,” offering a range of amenities such as table games, slots, and various dining options.
“Revenue generated from our new facility will be used to support social and educational programs, housing, health care, and the preservation of cultural resources; things we have struggled to maintain and provide for generations,” Dutschke said, highlighting the broader community impact of the project.
The project is being developed in partnership with Warner Gaming, a well-known developer with experience in building casinos across Washington and New Mexico. However, this is Warner Gaming’s first venture in California, making it a significant project for both the company and the tribe. Bill Warner, CEO of Warner Gaming, cited by Indian Gaming, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Our intensive and strategic planning process will help ensure that the Ione Band’s new development maintains long-term success.”
Concerns and Community Impact
While the groundbreaking ceremony, attended by approximately 275 people, was a cause for celebration for the tribe, not everyone in the surrounding community shares the same enthusiasm. Some Plymouth residents have voiced concerns about the potential increase in traffic and other disruptions that may accompany the casino’s development. City Manager Margaret Roberts acknowledged the mixed reactions, noting that while some residents are concerned, “It is their [the tribe’s] right to do what they want with the land.”
Roberts emphasized the city’s commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the tribe, adding that the city council has had a cooperative working relationship with the tribe throughout the process. The new casino is expected to create between 250 to 275 jobs, providing opportunities for both tribal members and local residents. Dutschke has underscored the importance of this employment boost, noting that the jobs generated will be a significant benefit for the community.
