One Silvia Burley (The Free Lance Feb. 10) claims to be the
chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe (Her claim is
disputed
– see The Free Lance Sept. 7, 2004).
Dear Editor:
One Silvia Burley (The Free Lance Feb. 10) claims to be the chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe (Her claim is disputed – see The Free Lance Sept. 7, 2004).
I find Silvia Burley’s remarks contradictory:
She chastises the county for being hasty and says she wants a “fair and open discussion.”
Six months ago the Tribe told us “the casino could be built, and opened, in 18 months to two years.” (see The Free Lance Aug. 27, 2004)
Start to finish on a $300 million project in 18 to 24 months implies you are moving now.
Naturally, such a timetable limits “fair and open discussion” to a rubber stamp.
She wonders why the casino project is not being treated like “any other development in San Benito County?”
She neglects to mention the casino is like no other development in San Benito County. It is not subject the county at all (no taxes, no regulation, etc.)!
She tells us “the Tribe has made no firm decision whether to go forward with this project.”
Two paragraphs later she says, “I want to state for the record, the Tribe and our investment partners will continue to move forward.”
I interpret her to mean “Like it or not, here we come.”
Neither she nor any member of her tribe resides in San Benito County and already she threatens the county with punishment (referring to it as – diminished input).
Should the casino actually move in with its “resistance is futile” mentality, how much real input do you suppose even a supportive county would have?
That’s right. Exactly none!
In a gratifying display of responsibility and courage, the county supervisors refuse to be a rubber stamp and are standing up to the bully.
To the rest of the elected public servants around here – what are you waiting for?
To the San Benito County Board of Supervisors – thank you! And how may I help?
Brent Hawks, Hollister
