“That is a hallmark of Sycuan - giving back,” the mayor said. “This economic self-sufficiency brings benefits to the entire region,” Faulconer said, adding that the tribe should be recognized for its prolific philanthropy. “And today, we delivered on that promise.”įaulconer noted that 1,200 construction jobs were created during the two-year build-out of the 12-story, 302-room hotel, new restaurants, a full-service spa, pool complex with a lazy river, event space, a 1,200-set entertainment venue and 60,000 square feet of additional casino floor space. “Just two years ago, we broke ground and we committed to becoming the premiere gaming destination in San Diego County,” said Sycuan tribal chairman Cody Martinez. “The casino market condition in Southern California is severely predatory and promotionally over-heated,” said Fred Buro, Pala’s newly appointed CEO.īut at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday attended by San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer, Sycuan tribal leaders and executives were bullish on the new resort’s potential as an economic engine. And Pala Casino Resort & Spa has shelved its plan to build a new hotel tower and has undergone several rounds of layoffs, including the ouster of the CEO.