Should the Urban Growth Boundary be Extended If It Means No Casino?

Urban growth boundaries restrict development, encourage eco-friendly in-fill projects and reduce suburban sprawl.

Petaluma implemented such a boundary in 1998 and recently extended it until 2025.

But plans of a future casino off Kastania Road have some wondering whether it would be better to extend the boundary (and put in city sewer and water services on the parcel) in exchange for a guarantee that the tribe that owns the land won’t turn it into a casino, the Argus Courier is reporting.

The public would likely be opposed to a casino on Petaluma southereastern edge, just off Highway 101.

But the city would have virtually no say in the project, since the land is owned by the Dry Creek Rancheria Pomo Band of Indians. However, the tribe's chairman, Harvey Hopkins, has said the group is also interested in a building something different, including recreational fields, housing for tribal elders and commercial and industrial properties.

In exchange, the tribe wants water and sewer services to be extended to the property, located east of Highway 101.

But because the parcel lies outside of Petaluma's urban growth boundary, any extension would have to be approved by voters, according to the Argus.

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Then tell us, do support extending the city’s Urban Growth Boundary if it means not having a casino built on Petaluma’s south edge? Share your thoughts in the comments below.