George James

Construction on McKenzie Health System’s new hospital in Sandusky is moving full speed ahead. Crews are setting steel beams, pouring concrete for foundations, and installing underground water and power lines. The first steel post is now in place — a major step toward the new facility. The project also includes a wider entrance off M-46, a second access point on Gates Road, and expanded parking. Work began last fall and is on track to wrap up by spring of ’27, bringing modern healthcare closer to home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

After more than a decade in St. Clair County government, Thomas Hull is stepping up as interim administrator and controller, keeping county operations on track after the retirement of longtime leader Karry Hepting. Hull took over January 1st after serving as deputy administrator. A Memphis High School graduate now living in Marysville, he started with the county back in ’13 and worked his way up from youth programs to administration. He says his focus is on steady leadership and improving how the county manages major projects behind the scenes.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The fight over Sarnia’s police headquarters took a sharp turn this week. On Monday, the Police Services Board sent the city a legal demand, claiming Mayor Mike Bradley’s budget veto over a $5-million new facility was improper. But two engineering reports say the current building is sound, needing $4.4 million in essential repairs, not replacement. The project, first floated in November after budget deadlines, may fall outside the mayor’s veto protections. Residents are left questioning whether the costly new build is a necessity—or a choice.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County is challenging a federal judge’s ruling that lets part of a former sheriff’s lieutenant’s lawsuit move forward. The county argues Scott Jones wasn’t forced into retirement after a ’22 drunk-driving arrest involving Sheriff Mat King’s brother. Jones claimed he faced retaliation for questioning how that arrest was handled and took his concerns to Human Resources. A judge dismissed most of his claims but said one retaliation claim could proceed. The county has now appealed, seeking to have the case thrown out entirely.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities in Sandusky arrested a 33-year-old local man after finding more than 113 grams of meth during a traffic stop last Friday evening. The Sanilac County Drug Task Force says the stop was part of a broader investigation into meth sales across the county. The suspect was taken to the Sanilac County Jail and faces multiple drug-related charges. The Lapeer County Sheriff’s K9 team and Sandusky Police helped on scene. Officials are urging residents to report drug activity through the Sheriff’s Office tip line or mobile app.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Six women from across the Blue Water Area are being honored for their leadership and community work. Blue Water Woman magazine has named them winners of its 14th annual Woman of the Year Awards. The honorees include local leaders in government, nonprofit, and youth services. They’ll be recognized during a ceremony March 11th at the McMorran Theatre in downtown Port Huron. Tickets are on sale now—$85 for adults and $55 for students—and include food and an open bar. The awards celebrate women who inspire others across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet