Opinion: Readers react to off-reservation gaming in Michigan

Thursday, September 1, 2011  

"Gov. Rick Snyder is opposed to the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians proposed casino in Fruitport Township in part because it's for non-tribal lands, which he said could open up uncontrolled expansion of gambling throughout the state.

Not surprising, Snyder has his critics in Muskegon as the commentors look for the casino to create jobs and create another attraction for Muskegon tourism. Anti-casino commentors praise his drawing a line on further Indian casino development.

PatrickJordan offered a thoughtful opposing view to Synder's position.

And, why then is it considered moral and justifiable to limit a Tribe to just one casino, when demographics and economics point to a place in the marketplace for another casino, in Muskegon? Musekgon needs to broaden it's offerings in order to attract tourism during all 4 seasons. Ths Casino would be an anchor of sorts and would then attract other investments that would create that 4-season draw. I do believe the Governor's decision is more anchored in his core beliefs than was the desision by the previous legislature...that was politics."

Get the Story:
The governor's opposition to an Indian casino in Muskegon has reignited the gambling debate (The Muskegon Chronicle 8/31)

Related Stories:
Michigan governor opposes Little River off-reservation casino (8/30)