The plans for a posh destination resort in Napa will address the public this month in several public hearings where local businesses, environmental groups and citizens will be given a chance to speak their mind. The final decision regarding the large resort is set to be voted on in March, but before then public hearings and a special meeting of the Napa County Airport Land Use Commission are scheduled. The possible St. Regis Hotel would be constructed at Napa's southern entry, located 4 miles from downtown Napa.
One of the major concerns of local businesses is that the resort will draw wine country tourists away from the city where many local businesses are located. With the resort situated 4 miles outside of downtown Napa Valley tourists may bypass the city. Many environmental groups are also concerned about the environmental impact the resort will have on the local agriculture and wildlife. Although each opposing group has valid concerns, local officials must weigh the pros and cons of the resort. A large resort would create more jobs for local residents as well as gross a hefty tax sum each year for the county. With more unemployment and less money in the county's coffers a large project of this scale will be hard to turn down.
