Health Dept. Staffing Shift
The St. Clair County Health Advisory Board voted Wednesday to back a staffing shift at the county health department. The plan replaces a nurse practitioner who’s leaving next month with a deputy physician assistant, a move aimed at keeping clinics running and reshaping leadership. Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin says he’ll boost his on-site hours to help fill the gap during hiring, which could take three months. Officials say the change won’t raise costs since it refills an existing job. The proposal will be reviewed in early April.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Black River Canal Funding Delayed
Fort Gratiot Township leaders have decided to hold off on a $1 million contribution toward fixing the Black River Canal after strong pushback from residents. The canal, linking Lake Huron and the Black River, has been closed since early ’24 due to ice damage. Port Huron is leading the $5.6 million project, but Fort Gratiot officials say they’ll wait for construction bids later this month before committing any funds. Many residents argue township tax dollars shouldn’t go toward a waterway they rarely use.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Dion Cox Returns to SC4
Nearly 25 years after first stepping onto the St. Clair County Community College court as a recruit, Detroit native Dion Cox is back — this time as head coach of the Skippers women’s basketball team. Cox, now 44, replaces Mike Groulx, who recently stepped down. A former SC4 player and long-time assistant coach, Cox later led high-school programs across St. Clair County, including Algonac. SC4 officials say his passion and experience make him the right leader to guide the Skippers.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet