Scotts Valley tribe races to open temporary Vallejo casino as review continues
VALLEJO, Calif., May 16, 2026 - The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians is moving quickly to open a temporary casino on its trust land in Vallejo, even as federal regulators reconsider whether the tribe can legally operate gaming on the site.
Freshly painted black modular structures now visible from Highway 37 appear close to ready on the outside, but there is no public evidence that slot-style gaming equipment has been delivered or installed inside. The tribe has described the project as a Class II "preview casino" that would use bingo-style electronic machines and does not require a state compact.
Photo of Scotts Valley Band's temporary casino building May 2026
$3,000 Casino Welcome Bonus!Tribal leaders say the casino is critical to creating jobs and generating revenue while a larger resort proposal remains in limbo. The city of Vallejo has approved a temporary services agreement to provide police, fire and utilities, signaling local support for at least the interim operation.
Opposing tribes and critics argue the project is being pushed ahead too quickly while the U.S. Department of the Interior reexamines earlier decisions about the land and the tribe's eligibility for gaming. A federal judge has previously warned that building out the site before the review is finished is done at the tribe's own risk.
Based on the visible exterior progress but lack of confirmed gaming equipment and the ongoing federal review, an opening by the end of June appears uncertain and, at best, a long shot.