The public has until Aug. 10 to comment on the environmental impact report for a controversial $50 million casino planned near Ukiah's northern border.

The Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians is proposing a 90,000-square-foot casino and a 72,100-square-foot hotel at the site of a former car dealership on North State Street north of Orr Springs Road.

Pinoleville officials say the project will provide jobs and independence for the tribe.

Critics say the Ukiah area doesn't need another casino. There already are two nearby, one seven miles north in Redwood Valley and one 16 miles southeast in Hopland.

Others have raised concerns about traffic impacts and water sufficiency.

The tribe hopes to break ground on the casino next spring, said John Tang, a consultant to the Pinoleville tribe. But a few hurdles remain.

While the tribe has secured a gaming compact with the governor, it has yet to find funding for the project or take title of the 8.8-acre site.

Tang said funding is not a concern. A number of potential investors have indicated interest, but the tribe is not yet ready to choose.

Several other casino projects have been stalled for lack of available funding in the down market.

Copies of the impact report can be viewed at the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors office on Low Gap Road and at the Ukiah Library on North Main Street.

Comments should be addressed to Leona Williams, chairwoman of the Pinoleville Pomo Nation, 500 B Pinoleville Drive, Ukiah 95482.

You can reach Staff Writer Glenda Anderson at 462-6473 or glenda.anderson @pressdemocrat.com.