For Immediate Release
Contact: Shawn Pensoneau ~ (202) 632-7003
NIGC Approves Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Management Contract
Washington DC, December 17, 2007 — On Friday, December 14, 2007, National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) Chairman Phil Hogen approved a gaming management contract between the Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians and Gaming Entertainment (Michigan) LLC.
This gaming management contract covers a parcel of land taken into trust by the Department of the Interior (DOI) in 2002. The 79 acre site was deemed an initial reservation by DOI in November of 2007, thereby allowing the Tribe to conduct gaming in accordance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), and Tribal-State Compact requirements.
NIGC Chairman Phil Hogen said “This has been a lengthy process for the Tribe that has included environmental reviews and litigation.” Hogen continued, “It is a great pleasure to approve the contract that will allow this project to move forward. We are hopeful Tribe will be successful with their gaming operations well into the future and are able to provide funding for education, healthcare, infrastructure and other important needs in their community.”
The plans call for an approximately 136,000 square foot facility that would accommodate 2,000 slot machines and 50 gaming tables. The plans also would allow for a poker room, bingo hall, food and beverage accommodations and gift shop operations. The facility will be located on I-94 in Calhoun County, Michigan.
The NIGC is an independent regulatory agency established within the Department of the Interior pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988.
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