George James

More than 150 business and community leaders gathered for the St. Clair County Economic Development Alliance’s Semi-Annual Meeting on Tuesday. The group shared its ’25 results — 339 new jobs and over $160 million in private investment from local expansions and attraction projects. CEO Dan Casey says the EDA answered more than 250 company requests for help last year. Looking ahead, the Alliance plans to boost business retention, attract affordable housing, and grow local training. Several companies were honored for major projects.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Columbus Township man charged with killing his former boss in Almont is planning to use an insanity defense. Thirty-two-year-old William Channer the Third is accused of shooting Logan Welch at Trims Unlimited last November after reportedly being laid off. His attorney filed notice with the Lapeer County Court earlier this month, meaning Channer must now undergo a psychiatric evaluation. Prosecutors say he fled after the shooting and was caught later following a chase. Channer remains in jail without bond, facing a possible life sentence if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair is getting a big boost for safer walking and biking. The city just secured a $209,000 federal grant to fix a dangerous stretch along Riverside Avenue where the Bridge to Bay Trail enters town. The plan adds new sidewalks and crosswalks for smoother, safer travel near the Pine River Bridge. The funding comes through the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments’ Safe Streets Now program, which helps communities build quick safety upgrades. City officials expect construction to start this fall after state review.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities in St. Clair County are investigating after two men died while working on a well at a newly purchased home in Clyde Township Tuesday. Deputies arrived at the home on Cribbins Road just before noon and noticed a strong chemical odor, later identified as hydrogen sulfide. A 20-year-old from Riley Township and a 21-year-old from Clyde Township were taken to the hospital but did not survive. Hazmat crews, firefighters, and EMS teams responded, and several first responders were also decontaminated as a precaution.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities in Kenockee Township seized drugs and weapons after a February 13th raid on a home along the 3400 block of Ruddock Road. The St. Clair County Drug Task Force says officers found 17 grams of meth, prescription pills, and seven guns. Three people were arrested — 36-year-old Jeremiah Dove, 61-year-old Daryl Dove, and 43-year-old Katrina Harris — all township residents. Each faces multiple felony charges, including maintaining a drug house. Bonds range from ten to twenty-five thousand dollars.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Applegate, tempers ran high Monday night as residents packed a special village meeting over a call to dissolve the village government. The controversy started with a letter from the husband of former president Michelle Warren, accusing council members of cronyism and ignoring public record requests. Village leaders fired back, saying new officials were properly hired and records were handled by the book. They also disputed claims that the fire department is separate from village control. The council plans to meet again March 2nd.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet