[8] From 2004 to 2006, Oklahoma billionaire Aubrey McClendon bought 400 acres (160 ha) of undeveloped duneland in Saugatuck Township for $39.5 million with plans to build luxury homes, 28 condos, a hotel, a marina, and a golf course.

In 2006, the Saugatuck Township Board re-zoned the land, making McClendon unable to build his planned project.

The Saugatuck Dunes Coastal Alliance opposes McClendon's plans, citing environmental concerns.

In 2009, McClendon sold 171 acres (69 ha) of the land in order to alleviate the group's concerns.

In March 2010, McClendon sued the township in federal court to overturn the zoning.