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Mishewal Wappo Indians sue to regain tribal status

By The Associated Press

Story Published: Jan 25, 2010

Story Updated: Jan 25, 2010

HEALDSBURG, Calif. (AP) – The Mishewal Wappo Indians are suing U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to regain tribal status, a move that could result in an Indian casino being built in the area.

The federal suit seeks a court order restoring tribal lands along the Russian River northeast of Healdsburg.

Sonoma County Supervisor Paul Kelley says officials are worried that U.S. recognition of the tribe might pave the way for tribal development that violates local land-use law.

The county fought a move by Sen. Barbara Boxer in 2003 to sponsor legislation giving the tribe federal recognition, an idea that was later dropped.

Officials for the 500-member Wappo tribe and the Interior Department could not be reached for comment.

According to the suit, the tribe was recognized by the U.S. government from 1851 to 1959.

Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Tuesday, Jan 26 at 4:08 PM Right A Wrong wrote ...

Kelley says county officials are worried that..recognition might initiate tribal development AND violate local land use laws? Upon federal recognition the local laws return to TRIBAL LAWS, keyword: RETURN. Stop denying the truth and allow these people their way of life...be christian about it...oh wait, that's how it started. The county can go after some rich resident's purloined land, they have options, and "plans" are always changed over time. Give these few people a chance in their own land.

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