Larry Romanelli, Tribal Ogema, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians released the following statement:
“I received a phone call from the Department of Interior notifying us that the six-month extension has been granted. Governor Whitmer now has until Jun. 16, 2022 to approve our proposed Casino in Fruitport Township. While the tribe and the community are disappointed that she did not approve our casino, we understand she has been focused on navigating the pandemic and other critical issues. Over the next six months, we will continue to work with the community to show the positive impact and importance this project will have on jobs, tourism, convention business, and the local economy. And we are confident in her final approval.”
The proposed Fruitport Township casino has the overwhelming support of the Muskegon community. It will generate over 1,500 construction jobs and create 1,500 permanent jobs at the casino. The casino is expected to contribute $15 million a year to the state and millions more to local governments.