Feasibility studies have shown that a satellite casino with 550 slot machines and a small food and beverage outlet to serve patrons will generate revenues, be appropriately sized for the community, and will create over 100 construction jobs and approximately 80 full-time casino jobs.

 

The Tribe currently has an appropriate and attractive site, which includes land in trust as required for a Tribal casino.

 

"We are looking forward to a cooperative, mutually beneficial, and lasting relationship with the Village of Mackinaw City. This project would be good for both the Tribe and Mackinaw City" stated Tribal Chairman Dexter McNamara. "Northern Michigan needs more year round businesses that create jobs with benefits and this project will help fill that need."

 

The Tribe's amended Compact with the State of Michigan allows for a second site in Emmet County. However, according to the Compact, "[t]he location of the Second Site is contingent on the approval of the affected local unit of State government by formal action of the governing body," Tribal Council approved a letter to be sent to the Village of Mackinaw City this past weekend at the Tribal Council's regularly scheduled meeting requesting to be placed on the Village's agenda.

 

Also this past weekend, Tribal Council provided an opportunity to hear input from Tribal Citizens and shared information regarding the project.

 

According to Tribal Council Legislative Leader Melvin Kiogima "we are going to be holding additional meetings with our Tribal Citizens in Grand Rapids, Lansing, Detroit, and Escanaba over the next month."

 

"We look forward to bringing jobs and increased economic activity to Mackinaw City and creating additional revenue for both the Tribe and the Village. This potential project will have an immediate and positive impact on all of us today." stated Kiogima. The Tribe will make its determination to proceed with the development in the coming months.

 

Tribal Chairman's office

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

7500 Odawa Circle, Harbor Springs, MI49740

231-242-1400