The below post was written by MLC intern, Luke Bingaman.
Last week, Emerson Silvernail, Chief of Staff for State Representative Sarah Lightner, accepted a check on behalf of the State of Michigan for $18.5 million from the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) and the Firekeepers Casino and Hotel. His heartfelt comments during the presentation were a testament to the solid relationship NHBP has with the state. The annual revenue sharing payment demonstrates NHBP’s commitment to supporting a prosperous Michigan and adds to the $253.8 million that has already been provided to the state over the years. Additionally, the NHBP provided $6 million to the Firekeepers Local Revenue Sharing Board (FLRSB) which supports vital programs and services locally. This builds upon the $84.6 million provided over the years.
NHBP and the Firekeepers Casino and Hotel has also been committed to investing in the people that live in this state. Firekeepers is one of the largest employers in the region and has invested over $1.13 billion in wages and benefits for its employees. Additionally, Firekeepers provided 2000 turkeys to local families during Thanksgiving and Christmas, has supported local business by awarding contracts totaling $808 million to Michigan-based small business, and has provided financial support to schools of all levels across the state.
