A group is trying to halt construction of a casino in Amador County by arguing that the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians is not a true tribe.

The anti-casino group, Friends of Amador County, filed suit last week in U.S. District Court in Sacramento seeking to quash approvals for the 950-slot facility.

The group claims historical records show the casino site is inhabited by the remnants of many tribes who lack a common history and language.

The tribe's Web site – buenavistatribe.com – says Me-Wuk Indians have lived on the 67-acre parcel since at least 1817. The federal government has recognized the tribe since 1985.

A federal court last year dismissed Amador County's lawsuit challenging the tribe's legitimacy.

– Bee Staff, Associated Press

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