George James

Port Huron is facing a clash between housing development and green space. The city ended Polly’s Place garden’s lease on 27th Street to make room for nine new homes, sparking pushback from founder Julian Ruck and local residents. Ruck says the garden is an educational hub for students and families, while city leaders cite water costs and previous property issues. Councilmember Barbara Payton and supporters argue the garden is vital for the community. Negotiations and public debate over the site continue.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

East China Park has seen growing damage over the summer, with graffiti, broken fixtures, and even cut-down trees causing an estimated $10,000 in losses. Parks Manager Deanna Slanec says repairing the damage could take until spring. Deputies from the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office have stepped up patrols, and security cameras are being installed to catch vandals. Officials say two young men appear responsible for it, and no new incidents have occurred since patrols increased. Anyone with tips is asked to contact Deputy Dawson Sugars.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Nikki and Brandon Louks are turning their Goodells yard into a spooky, family-friendly Halloween attraction for the fourth year. Their property on Morris Road features animatronics, themed scenes, and costumed characters. Jump scares are toned down for young kids, and five candy stations make sure every visitor leaves with treats. This year, softer music creates a kid-friendly atmosphere. The free event accepts donations for the Humane Society of St. Clair County SNAP and is open starting this evening at 6.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Nov. 4th for 36-year-old Oile accused of killing 30-year-old Reginald Franklin at a Port Huron Marathon gas station. Court documents say Franklin was shot multiple times at the Military Street location on Oct. 13th after a confrontation with Oile. Franklin was rushed to Lake Huron Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The hearing will determine if enough evidence exists to move the case to a jury trial. Oile faces an open murder charge, carrying up to life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron police officer injured a dog Tuesday morning after it charged at him while responding to a neighbor dispute on Williamsburg Drive. The call came around 10:17, when the officer encountered two aggressive dogs at one home. He fired his weapon, striking one dog, which was taken to St. Clair County Animal Control. The officer sustained minor injuries but did not seek medical care. Authorities are investigating whether the dogs were deliberately provoked.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lapeer woman’s short drive home turned into a 250-mile adventure last week. 79-year-old Georgia Oates left Eastpointe on last Tuesday, but got lost and later lost phone contact with her son. Her car was spotted near Saginaw early Wednesday, far from her intended destination. Michigan State Police confirmed she was safely found later that afternoon near Cheboygan, just south of the Mackinac Bridge. Authorities thanked the public for tips and assistance during her unexpected journey.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet