The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community shared more than $1.3 million in gaming revenues with local and state governments in Michigan.
Twice a year, the tribe shares 2 percent of its slot machine net win with local governments. The first payment of 2018 came to $263,469.59, according to Michigan Gaming. The tribe also shares 8 percent with the state. The amount totaled $1.05 million. The payments are derived from revenues at the tribe's two Ojibwa Casino facilities, both of which are undergoing expansions. According to the July 2018 issue of Wiikwedong Dazhi-Ojibwe, the tribe's newsletter, the first phase of the expansion at the casino in Marquette will cost nearly $36 million. The first phase in Baraga will cost $3.2 million. "A $40,000,000.00 loan will fund these Casino Projects," the newsletter reads. "The Tribe has $20,000,000.00 cash collateral." Phase one at Marquette includes a larger gaming floor, two dining options and a 1,200-seat entertainment venue. The casino in Baraga will see numerous renovations and upgrades to the property in the first phase. Read More on the Story: