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FireKeepers Casino Hotel takes great pride in its contributions to the development of Michigan state.
In 2021, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP), who own FireKeepers, made noteworthy contributions to the state of Michigan, setting a new record.
A total of $27.4 million in contributions led to check presentations totaling slightly above $21 million for the state of Michigan, and $6.3 million for the FireKeepers Local Revenue Sharing Board (FLRSB).
The revenue sharing payments in 2021 have contributed to a cumulative total of over $260 million.
Bounce back from pandemic
Due to the pandemic, FireKeepers’ payments to state and local recipients in 2020 did not surpass the previous year for the first time.
After 2021, everything is now back on course.
The payment made to the state this year was more than twice the contribution made in 2020, representing an 11.4% increase compared to the allocation in 2019.
The recent payment made to the FLRSB saw a 30% increase compared to last year and a 9.2% improvement over the payment made in 2019.
The NHBP has made historic contributions totaling $194.5 million to the state and $66.1 million to the FLRSB.
Michigan District 63 State Representative Matt Hall was presented with a state check from NHBP and FireKeepers, while Chairperson Joe Caron received the FLRSB check.
Jamie Stuck, Tribal Council Chairperson for the NHBP, emphasized that the significant revenue sharing distributions reflect the tribe’s ongoing commitment to investing in this acclaimed property and the unwavering dedication of our Team Members to providing exceptional guest service. Despite facing labor shortages and the challenges posed by various COVID variants, our management and staff successfully constructed and launched a magnificent hotel tower, along with additional casino and restaurant expansions.
Building the FireKeepers Casino brand
The community efforts of FireKeepers and the NHBP have resulted in the ongoing expansion of the FireKeepers brand, showcasing their sustained growth.
One could argue that the most notable investment made by the organization is The Fire Hub restaurant located in downtown Battle Creek. Established in 2017, The Fire Hub integrates a unique restaurant and bakery experience along with a neighboring Kendall Street Food Pantry that operates as a distinguished agency under the South Michigan Food Bank.
The success of The Fire Hub can be observed through the funds raised in the Community Fund, which amounted to $8,000. This generous amount was donated to the South Michigan Food Bank, supporting their efforts to eradicate hunger.
The FireKeepers Casino 400, Michigan’s exclusive NASCAR Cup Series race, is a significant event that is proudly sponsored by FireKeepers. This year, it is set to take place on August 7th at the Michigan International Speedway.
The FireKeepers Casino Hotel Golf Championship is another exciting event on the Epson Tour Road to the LPGA tournament schedule. Mark your calendars for July 29-31, as this prestigious tournament takes place at the Battle Creek Country Club.
Who has been benefitting
FireKeepers and the NHBP prioritize reinvesting in local communities and charities across Michigan.
The NHBP has actively prioritized its efforts to emphasize support for local businesses and suppliers at FireKeepers Casino Hotel, aiming to extend contributions to the local economy beyond the FLRSB and the distribution to the state.
Consequently, expenditure in Michigan, particularly in local regions, experienced significant growth in 2021. As a result, contracts worth over $71.2 million were awarded this year, surpassing a lifetime total of $656 million.
The distribution includes:
- The Greater Calhoun County Region, which includes Calhoun, Jackson, and Branch counties, has received a funding of $6.1 million.
- The total sum of $10.7 million has been allocated to West Michigan, encompassing the counties of Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Grand Traverse, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Van Buren.
- The total amount of $36.5 million has been allocated to the Lansing Area, encompassing Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties.
- The amount of $2.5 million has been allocated for Metro Detroit, specifically in Wayne.
- The remaining $15.4 million includes Chippewa, Genesee, Gratiot, Ionia, Livingston, Macomb, Manistee, Marquette, Mecosta, Midland, Monroe, Newaygo, Oakland, Saginaw, St. Clair, Shiawassee, Washtenaw, and Wexford.
The check handed to the FLRSB marks the 13th distribution since the initial one in February 2010. Back then, the NHBP provided a check worth almost $2 million to the FLRSB. So far, a total of $66.1 million has been distributed, benefiting various groups from different backgrounds.
- Harper Creek Community Schools
- Calhoun County Road Commission
- Emmett Township
- Calhoun County
- Calhoun Intermediate School District
- Kellogg Community College
- Willard Library
- Athens Township
- Marshall Township
- City of Marshall
- City of Battle Creek
- Athens Area Schools
- Village of Athens
- Battle Creek Public Schools
- Marshall Public Schools
- Lakeview School District
- Pennfield Schools
In 2016, NHBP and the State of Michigan entered into a Compact Amendment that stipulates a potential annual payment of $500,000 from state revenue sharing to the Michigan Native American Heritage Fund.
In 2021, financial aid and/or reimbursement were granted by this fund to 11 schools and educational service institutions. This support aimed to alleviate the expenses associated with projects that foster positive relationships and disseminate accurate information about the history and contributions of Michigan’s Indian tribes and Native Americans within the state.
FireKeepers Casino sees increase in employment
Throughout 2021, FireKeepers has expanded its employee base to include a total of 2,082 team members.
The emphasis on job growth is evident from the cumulative expenditure on labor, which amounted to $92.7 million in 2021, marking a 20.8% surge compared to the previous year. Since its inception, the total labor expenses have surpassed $815.7 million, encompassing wages, health insurance, 401k contributions, and additional incentives.
Kathy George, Chief Executive Officer at FireKeepers Casino Hotel, expressed her admiration for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, considering them as the top owners in the hospitality industry. She highlighted their recent investments in a stunning second hotel tower and resort expansion, which will enable them to accommodate a larger number of guests and contribute to the local community. Moreover, George emphasized the exceptional treatment of their team members, including generous incentives, competitive wages, health benefits, and biannual bonuses. She commended the dedication and resilience of the staff, who successfully handled various challenges throughout the year while maintaining their warm hospitality towards the thousands of daily visitors.
FireKeepers will be hosting a Job Fair on Tuesday, April 19 as a way to fulfill its commitment to expanding its workforce.
The fair will be held in two sessions, one from 9 a.m. to noon and the other from 3-7 p.m. Prospective candidates are advised to bring their resumes. Additionally, passing a drug screen and background check is mandatory for eligibility.
