SAN DIEGO -- A local casino is proposing a plan that would give millions of dollars to San Diego County.

The Harrah's Rincon Hotel and Casino is looking into the possibility of a plan to create a Rincon shared benefit fund, which would put millions of dollars directly into county coffers.

"Our position was always that the funds should be utilized locally to address out local needs, not the state needs," said Bo Mazzetti, Rincon tribe chairman.
As part of its deal with the state, Rincon Casino has always sent a percentage of earnings to the state general fund. In late June 2011, after a six-year legal battle, the U.S. Supreme Court decided that was unconstitutional.
Now the casino is trying to give the money directly to the county, where it will be used for law enforcement, fire protection, road improvements and gambling addiction programs.
The County Board of Supervisors will vote on the proposed fund October 11.
The fund is estimated to bring in anywhere from $3 million to $8 million annually, depending on the casino's gross revenue. Mazzetti believes the unprecedented move could have other tribal casinos following suit.
"Every tribe that's in the gaming business wants to be a good neighbor, wants to help the communities out, and that's what we're doing," he said.
If the plan is approved by supervisors, the tribe and county are expected to meet with Gov. Jerry Brown to finalize details.