Michigan - Muskegon County citizens will still be able to express their opinions about the possible establishment of a casino in Fruitport Township, but it may not be at the ballot booth.That’s because a state elections official, citing case law, has expressed the opinion that the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners has no legal right to put an advisory policy question about casinos or any other issue on the public ballot.

Local officials seem ready to accept that opinion without a fight.

Ted Williams, the county’s corporate counsel, said he discussed the mattter with state officials and considers their legal position to be solid. County Commissioner James Derezinski, chairman of the county board, said he would still prefer to have the advisory vote on the casino, but realizes now that it probably won’t happen.

Commissioners are expected to discuss the matter at their full board meeting next Tuesday.

MLive.com