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The count of tribal casinos in Michigan stands at almost twenty-four, nearing an even number. Recently, a crucial procedure necessary for the Muskegon County casino project by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians was successfully accomplished by a federal agency.
The Final Environmental Impact Statement regarding a tribal casino situated between the cities of Muskegon and Grand Haven has been published by the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs.
However, there are still a few legal procedures that need to be completed before construction can commence.
Muskegon County casino plans clear big hurdle
In essence, this significant domino had to topple in the perfect manner for the prospective owners of the casino, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, in order for all the other elements to align harmoniously. It represents an evaluation by the federal government of the various alternatives to promote economic growth in the region.
Larry Romanelli, the ogema or elected leader of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, was pleased to hear the assessment was favorable towards utilizing the land for a casino.
Romanelli stated that this marks a significant advancement in our efforts to develop the Muskegon County Casino Project.
“This was the momentous event that strongly indicates the imminent establishment of a casino here in Muskegon, in my perspective.”
Romanelli’s optimism does not guarantee that the deal is finalized. Currently, there is a public comment period for the FEIS, lasting for 30 days. Written comments can be submitted by hand-delivery or mail to the following address:
Ms. Tammie Poitra, Director of the Midwest Region
Midwest Region of the Bureau of Indian Affairs
The building’s name is Norman Pointe II.
Suite 500, 5600 West American Boulevard
The postal code for Bloomington, Minnesota is 55347.
After the designated period has ended, the tribe’s plans will be subject to final decisions by the bureau and the US Department of the Interior.
What happens next?
If the tribe receives positive outcomes for those decisions, the Interior Department will transfer ownership of the 60-acre tract to the tribe, which will be added to the existing 26.5 acres they already possess. Presently, the land is occupied by an outdated racetrack.
In order to proceed, the next course of action entails engaging in negotiations for a gaming compact with the state. It is imperative that both the legislature and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reach an agreement on the terms of the compact.
Construction and development can commence once this point is reached. The proposals presented favorably in the FEIS provide valuable insights into the offerings of the facility.
What does the tribe have planned for the new casino?
The plans encompass all the typical elements of a tribal casino, which will span across approximately 87 acres. The envisioned characteristics consist of:
- There is a gaming floor space of 69,000 square feet.
- There are a total of 1,700 slot machines.
- There are 35 table games available.
- A hotel with a total of 220 rooms.
- Food and recreational area
- Rooms for events and meetings
At some point, sports betting will also be offered as one of the amenities. The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians has already introduced sports betting at the Little River Casino Resort in Manistee. The River Rock Sportsbook & Grill, powered by Kambi, was opened in July.
In addition to Michigan, BetRivers has formed a partnership with the tribe to expand its online gambling offerings.
The tribe commits to introducing over 3,000 employment opportunities to the region, with half of them being permanent positions. The location of the site is situated adjacent to Interstate 96 on the eastern side, South Harvey Street on the western side, and East Ellis Road on the southern side.
Currently, the tribe’s casino project in Muskegon County does not have a specific timeline for final approval or groundbreaking. Nevertheless, the tribe’s prospects are currently very positive. If the remaining steps proceed smoothly, residents of MI near Fruitport Township will soon have an additional gambling option.
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