RICHMOND, Calif. -- A judge says Richmond violated state environmental laws when it struck a deal with an American Indian tribe seeking to build a casino just outside the city.

In a tentative ruling, Contra Costa County Judge Barbara Zuniga said last week that the city needed to conduct a complete environmental review before entering the 20-year, $335 million pact with the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians. It had agreed to provide emergency services, roadwork and political support for the Las Vegas-style casino.

Zuniga is expected to issue a final ruling this week on the lawsuit by groups of local residents and environmentalists.

If it stands, the ruling could hurt the tribe's chances for approval. Federal policy calls for local support and mitigation measures for "off-reservation" casino proposals.

City Council members said they could appeal or complete an environmental report.