Michigan governor rejects Little River off-reservation casino

Tuesday, June 21, 2011  

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) says he won't agree to an off-reservation casino for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians.

Last year, the tribe signed an amendment to its Class III gaming compact with former governor Jennifer Granholm. The amendment authorized an off-reservation casino at a former racetrack in Muskegon, about 80 miles from the reservation.

The State Legislature never approved the deal, however. And now Snyder says he won't agree to the amendment.

“We will continue to work with Gov. Snyder to show the economic benefits to the community and the state," Larry Romanelli, the tribe's ogema, or chief, told The Muskegon Chronicle.

The tribe has purchased about 233 acres for the proposed casino.

Get the Story:
Proposed Muskegon County casino supporters plan to keep advocating despite governor's reluctance (The Muskegon Chronicle 6/21)

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Compact for Little River Band off-reservation casino up in the air (8/30)