The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is building this casino with internal financial resources and no taxpayer dollars but is expected to generate economic development of $15 million in tax revenue for the State of Michigan and millions more for local governments. The new casino is expected to attract 1.8 million visitors per year. The Muskegon County Casino Project represents an investment of over $180 million in the community and is slated to bring approximately 3,000 jobs to the region that include 1,500 high paying full-time jobs and 1,500 construction and ancillary jobs. “We are optimistic and are counting on the Governor to say yes to the jobs, economic development and increased tribal services our project will bring to the community.” “Our goal today was to send a message – loud, clear and hopeful above all else, that we are ready to break ground on this project,” said Ogema Larry Romanelli. Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Tribal Ogema Larry Romanelli, Tribal Council Speaker Ron Pete, Tribal Council Member Sandra Lewis, and community supporters of the project gather to let the Governor know they are ready to break ground in Fruitport Township at the proposed casino site. The school district is 100% behind the tribe and this project.” “A casino would bring jobs, new residents and economic development to Muskegon. “We have been waiting for construction to start on this project for over a decade,” said Bob Syzmoniak, Fruitport Community Schools Superintendent. Ogema Romanelli, along with community supporters in Muskegon ranging from local business owners, elected officials to education leaders gathered safely, following all COVID-19 protocols, at the site early Saturday morning to send a message to the Governor that the casino is ready to build. “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.” “This ruling clears the way for our Tribe to work with the Governor to create 3,000 new jobs and a permanent, year-round entertainment venue in Muskegon County,” said Tribal Ogema Larry Romanelli. This announcement completes the necessary Federal approvals the process now moves to the State of Michigan where the Tribe will work with the Governor on negotiating a compact whereby the casino can be built at a former racetrack in Fruitport Township.

The United States Bureau of Indian Affairs has issued the Record of Decision and two-part determination for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ Muskegon County casino project.

Tribe and community hopeful Governor Whitmer will approve

Muskegon little river casino