The Tejon Indian Tribe and Hard Rock Casino Tejon will host a grand opening ceremony for the new Tejon Public Safety Center on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The new facility includes the Kern County Sheriff Tejon Substation and Kern County Fire Station #54 located adjacent to Hard Rock Casino Tejon.

The Tejon Public Safety Center was constructed without the use of taxpayer funding and represents a direct investment by the Tejon Tribe and Hard Rock Casino Tejon in enhancing regional public safety infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.

“This Public Safety Center reflects our long-term commitment to safety, preparedness, and partnership,” said Chris Kelley, Property President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon. “From day one, our goal has been to create not only a world-class entertainment destination, but also a safe and secure environment for our guests, team members, and the surrounding community. We are proud to stand alongside our public safety partners on this important milestone.”

“The Tejon Tribe is proud to help bring this important public safety investment to our region,” said Octavio Escobedo III, Chairman of the Tejon Indian Tribe. “The Tejon Public Safety Center represents the strength of collaboration and our shared commitment to protecting the community, supporting first responders, and building for the future.”

“A partnership was formed between KCSO and Hard Rock Casino Tejon to provide a safe, enjoyable environment,” said Donny Youngblood. “We value that partnership.”

“This station represents far more than a new building; it is the result of what can be accomplished through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to public safety. Station 54, our department’s 49th fire station, stands as a testament to the collaboration between the County of Kern, the Kern County Fire Department, the Hard Rock Casino Tejon, and the Tejon Indian Tribe. Together, we are strengthening emergency response capabilities for this community and investing in the safety and future of the region.” Stated Kern County Fire Chief Aaron Duncan.

The event will feature remarks from Tribal leadership, Hard Rock Casino Tejon executives, Kern County public safety officials, and elected members. Media will also have opportunities to tour the new facilities, including fire apparatus, law enforcement vehicles, and public safety operations.

Event Details 

What: 

Grand Opening Ceremony for the Tejon Public Safety Center featuring the Kern County Sheriff Tejon Substation and Kern County Fire Station #54

 

Who: 

• Tejon Tribe and Hard Rock Casino Tejon Leadership
• Sheriff Donny Youngblood
• Fire Chief Aaron Duncan
• Local and Regional Elected Officials
• Community Leaders and Stakeholders

 

When: 

Thursday, May 28, 2026
10:00 AM

Where: 

Tejon Public Safety Center
1777 Garone Farm Road
Mettler, CA

Visual / Media Opportunities

• Grand Opening Ceremony
• Remarks from Tribal, Hard Rock, and public safety leaders
• Tours of the new public safety facilities
• Fire apparatus and law enforcement vehicles
• Interview opportunities with officials and leadership

 

Media RSVP / Contact 

Jimmy Yee Yankee Communications, Inc. [email protected]