Agua Caliente and other tribal casinos reopening today
The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians will reopen its casinos in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage at noon on Friday, May 22.
The casinos will implement "Play it Safe" measures which includes "intense cleaning efforts utilizing an antimicrobial product throughout the tribal properties" as well as temperature checks upon entry, face-covering requirements and social distancing requirements, among other measures, for guests and team members throughout the facilities.
Smoking will not be allowed inside tribe properties.
The casinos will also maintain a 50 percent occupancy limit. The number of seats at table games and on the casino floor will be reduced.
The Sunstone Spa, The Show, Pivat Cigar Lounge, The District, and the resort pool will remain closed as will the buffets at both properties.
"Upon re-opening, our Tribe’s top priority will be to create and maintain the safest environment possible for everyone who interacts with our facilities, including guests, team members and vendors,” Tribal Chairman Jeff L. Grubbe said. “We have spent the past two months re-evaluating the way we do business in this new environment. We have changed our perspective and have improved upon our business practices. Our guests demand and deserve the kind of care and attention that goes into providing the highest quality experience."
Both Agua Caliente casinos have been closed since March 17 after the tribe declared a State of Emergency today for the Reservation in order to protect the health and welfare of Tribal Members, Tribal employees and the broader non-tribal Reservation community.
Morongo Spa Resort and Casino, Casino Morongo, Spotlight 29, and Tortoise Rock Casino will all also open its doors on Friday. Fantasy Springs and Augustine Casinos have not announced reopening at this time.
Full details on local casinos reopening and the steps they are taking to protect patrons and staff
On Tuesday, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution supporting tribal governments reopening their casinos.
"I was impressed at the levels they’re going to," said Supervisor Jeff Hewitt. "And that’s part of the reason that we need to get them back – they’re an important part of our economy, too."
Local Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz told News Channel 3 that he believes the reopening is premature.
"We're in the gray zone, but in my opinion, I believe it's a little early," Ruiz said.
Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing updates.
