The federal government has officially revoked the tribal trust status of a 68-acre parcel outside Windsor, halting the Koi Nation’s controversial plans for a major casino resort.
According to the Press Democrat, following a judge’s order, the Bureau of Indian Affairs reconveyed the land back to the tribe, effectively placing the property back under Sonoma County’s jurisdiction and land-use regulations.
While the Koi Nation recently moved its tribal headquarters to the site, local community groups and neighboring tribes have raised alarms over unauthorized development and a lack of county permits.
The tribe is currently appealing the decision in federal court, remaining confident they will eventually prevail. For now, however, the massive gaming project is at a legal standstill as local officials move to monitor the site for compliance.