The plan to bring a casino to downtown Lansing has been in the works since 2012, but due to setbacks, it’s likely it will never happen, according to Lansing Mayor Andy Schor.
The proposal has been heavily supported by the city of Lansing’s previous administration under former Mayor Virg Bernero, who has worked with the Native American tribe to keep the project moving forward.
Still, the federal government, city of Lansing, and the tribe itself continue to remain at odds over what should happen next.
To better explain, here’s some background: The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians wants to build the $245-million casino adjacent to the Lansing Center, which is located on Michigan Avenue.
The tribe has actually owned that land since 2012, but last July the federal government denied the tribes application to put land into trust for the project.
Mayor Schor said until the feds change their position on this issue, there will be no casino coming to Lansing.
“I’ve never been shy about the fact that I’m not excited to have it in the downtown,” Mayor Schor said. “I would like to have the dollars and things produced from a casino, that go to our students and Lansing schools, but I think there might be other locations that are better suited for it but at this point, it doesn’t matter because the federal government said ‘no’ and that’s the answer we have right now.”
The contract for the property is set to expire January 1, 2019. Mayor Schor said if anything changes between now and then, he’ll happily reevaluate the plan.
The tribe however is not backing down and does not plan to anytime soon
You can read more about the proposal by clicking here.
6 News will have reaction from the tribe’s legal representative later tonight, on 6 News at 11.
