MUSKEGON, Mich — A judge has denied Independent Bank's request for a receiver to step in amid the bank's civil complaint against a development project in Muskegon and its developer, Ryan Leestma.

Leestma is the developer of Adelaide Pointe, a marina and waterfront community located along Muskegon Lake's lakeshore.

The development has been the subject of many controversies. At one point, residents were concerned the project would close the lakeside bike bath permanently. Then, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), said they found multiple violations at the development site.

The development was set to open about a year later, when suddenly Leestma had to step down as CEO amid controversy over a letter he had sent to President Donald Trump , asking

See Full Page