The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) recently issued the Record of Decision and two-part determination for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ proposed $180 million casino in Muskegon County, Michigan. For the next step, tribal officials and Governor Gretchen Whitmer will negotiate a gaming compact.
Tribal Ogema Larry Romanelli said, “This ruling clears the way for our tribe to work with the governor to create 3,000 construction and permanent new jobs and a permanent, year-round entertainment venue in Muskegon County. We thank the Muskegon community and other West Michigan communities for their support over the past 12 years and we look forward to putting shovels in the ground.”
Besides creating new jobs, analysts said the casino will generate more than $15 million in annual tax revenue for the state and local governments. More than 1.8 million visitors are expected annually at the former racetrack site in Fruitport Township.
The casino will include about 69,000 square feet of gaming floor space with 1,700 slot machines and 35 table games, plus a 220-room hotel, event and meeting room space and dining and entertainment options.
