George James

Port Huron city leaders are reshuffling operations after a key resignation. Deputy City Manager Cynthia Broomfield is leaving for a new job out of state, a move officials say brings her closer to family. Rather than replace her, City Manager James Freed plans to absorb the role and reorganize staff workflow. Broomfield spent more than eight years with the city, leading major projects, including federal pandemic relief funding and downtown improvements. Freed called her a trusted leader as the city shifts how it runs day-to-day operations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A familiar face is back leading emergency response in St. Clair County. Timothy Niggemeyer, a former Tri-Hospital EMS leader, has returned as CEO after more than a decade away. The service now handles nearly 26,000 calls a year across most of the county, more than double ’14 levels. His top priority is an August millage vote that helps fund ambulances, staffing, and response times. Without it, leaders say the system could struggle. Niggemeyer is also preparing crews for future changes, including new technology in emergency care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A former Michigan school employee is now facing serious charges after a months-long investigation. Sixty-year-old Duane Paehlig, once the maintenance director for Sandusky Community Schools, was arraigned in Sanilac County court and did not enter a plea. Prosecutors accuse him of embezzling at least $20,000, committing forgery, and damaging school property. Police say searches at his home last October turned up district-owned items. He is being held on a $100,000 bond and is due back in court June 9. If convicted, he could face years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lapeer County murder case is on hold after a judge ruled the suspect is not competent to stand trial. Authorities say 32-year-old William Channer Jr. of Columbus Township shot and killed his former boss, Logan Welch, at Trims Unlimited in Almont last November. Channer later led deputies on a high-speed chase before being shot and arrested. A forensic evaluation found him incompetent but “restorable,” meaning treatment could allow the case to move forward. Prosecutors say the court will review his condition monthly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A traveling exhibit is bringing Michigan’s Thumb history to local communities this summer. The Sanilac County Historical Society will take “Echoes of Sanilac” to 15 stops across Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola, and Lapeer counties from June through September, with free admission. The exhibit covers everything from ancient petroglyphs to Great Lakes shipping, wildfires, and Prohibition-era rumrunning. Organizers say it highlights how everyday people shaped the region through hardship and change. A permanent display is also open at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum in Port Sanilac.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet