YREKA - The Chairman of the Siskiyou County Republican Party has asked the Yreka City Council to “cease and desist  from any further negotiations with the Alturas Rancheria until the many issues with the Federal and State governments concerning this tribe are resolved.”

Speaking on behalf of the Republican Central Committee, Chairman Dr. Sam Wakim addressed the council at its March 16, meeting.

Wakim referenced a March 3, letter from the Governors Legal Affairs Secretary, Lynn Hoch, that outlined many problems the state and federal government had with the proposed tribal gaming facility in Yreka.

In a prepared statement Wakim stated “I am aware that the Tribe to date has not yet approached the City in negotiating any agreements on infrastructure and other community services. However, the issues described in the letter need to be resolved before the Yreka City Council considers negotiating with this Tribe.”

Wakim will make a similar request to the Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors meeting March 21.

The request was made after the county Republican Central Committee had voted unanimously March 15, to “endorse and support Governor Schwarzeneggers position on the Alturas Rancheria’s Shasta Mountain Casino.”

“It’s something that involves our county,” said Wakim.  “We wanted to participate in the process, and not just stand by and let it happen. That’s not the right thing to do.

“If we are to have a casino we don’t want just anyone coming in. We want honest brokers, and the Tribe has been less than honest in their dealings. That’s why they are in the position they are in now.”

Wakim’s statement came during the public comment portion of the council meeting. The council had no comment on the matter.