From Upnorthlive:
The Bay Mills Indian Community is now the owner of a large parcel of land in Vanderbilt.
The more than 45 acres of property is next to I-75. The tribe is evaluating the condition of a 1200 sq. foot building, which is the former Treetops Resort Welcome Center, on the property.
While rumors have circulated that the tribe may choose to open a casino on the land, leaders of Bay Mills said they will use the land for hunting purposes.
Tribal leaders said they have been looking for a parcel of land for more than 10 years and the current economic climate allowed the tribe to buy the property at a reasonable price. Leaders have not prepared any trust application in regards to the site.
“It’s no secret we have wanted to be a part of the community for a long time,” said BMIC Tribal Chairman Jeff Parker. “We have nothing to hide, our trucks are parked right outside the building. We own it and are currently working to make the structure functional.”
The tribe has been hunting elk in the region since 2007. The tribe is also in talks with private landowners to buy large tracts of land for hunting purposes.
American Indian Tribal Law
Facing the Future: The Indian Child Welfare Act at 30
Federal Indian Law: Cases and Materials (6th ed.)
The Eagle Returns: The Legal History of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians
The Indian Civil Rights Act at Forty
While 45 acres isn’t exactly a “large” parcel of land in the context of tribal land acquisition, it is exciting to see BMIC buying land with an eye toward the elk hunt. Congrats Bay Mills!!