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Grand Traverse Resort Gambling Not Sure Thing

ACME, Michigan – As reported by the Traverse City Record Eagle: "A wide variety of options would be available to the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians for future development of the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, although that does not necessarily mean slot machines and dice tables will be moving in anytime soon.

"Whether the tribe would make significant changes to the resort operation - such as the addition of casino gaming or some other major expansion - may not be determined for several months or even years. Tribal officials will have to weigh several factors, ranging from the economy to its relations with local governments to various legal precedents, before any long-term plans for the resort are settled.

"…If the sale is completed, the band - as a federally recognized Indian tribe with state-like sovereignty - will be no ordinary landlord. It will have several potential development options.

"…Having that land held in federal trust also does not necessarily clear the way for casino gaming on the site. The tribe could have other legal options to make that happen, however, including its 'restored lands' legal argument that was used to keep Turtle Creek operating despite claims by state and federal attorneys that it was illegal. The band successfully argued in U.S. District Court that Turtle Creek, in Grand Traverse County, was on land included in its historic reservation area as outlined in an 1836 treaty with the federal government…"

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