Gull Lake Country Club in southwestern Michigan has agreed to pay $440,000 to settle allegations that it wrongly obtained a loan through a federal program during the COVID-19 pandemic. The club was not eligible for the loan, according to U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. The settlement was reached after a whistleblower filed a lawsuit against the club, with the federal government joining the case. Under the Paycheck Protection Program, certain businesses could receive forgivable loans to help them during the pandemic.
The lawsuit, which also names other Michigan golf clubs, resulted in most documents being sealed in federal court in Grand Rapids. Wade Riner, the whistleblower, will receive a share of the settlement and has filed similar lawsuits in other states. The resolution of this case demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting taxpayer dollars and investigating allegations of fraud on critical government programs.
Efforts to reach the Gull Lake club for comment were unsuccessful at the time of the settlement. This incident highlights the importance of transparency and compliance with federal relief programs during times of crisis. The golf club’s payment of $440,000 serves as a reminder for businesses to diligently follow the rules and regulations set forth by government programs to ensure that funds are allocated appropriately and fairly.
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