"Negotiations between the State of Michigan and the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians over revenue sharing payments due state and local governments from the tribe are still at impasse.

And, the two sides are still "very close" to resolution.

Three-quarters of a year after the first money was withheld, nearly $20 million is owed the state, Berrien County, New Buffalo Township and the city of New Buffalo.

Last December, when the initial slot machine proceeds from the Four Winds Casino came due, state officials predicted a quick resolution to the standoff.

Since then, every month or so, the Michigan Gaming Control Board has reported an imminent conclusion to the matter by Gov. Jennifer Granholm's office.

It's the same line repeated last week by John Wernet, deputy legal counsel to the governor.

The Pokagons' silence on why they're stonewalling is increasingly frustrating to Berrien County residents."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Four Winds' big payout to units overdue (The South Bend Tribune 9/25)