Local News

Health officials in St. Clair County are warning residents to avoid swimming at Holland Beach after high levels of E. coli were found in the water. The advisory was issued Thursday and will stay in place until bacteria levels drop to a safe range. E. coli can signal contamination from waste and may cause illness. Officials say levels often rise after heavy rain or strong winds. Beachgoers are urged to avoid murky water, not swallow lake water, and wash up thoroughly after any contact.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 41-year-old Deckerville woman was injured last Monday afternoon when her Jeep Grand Cherokee suddenly left the road on Lakeshore near Wiltse around 3:30. The vehicle hit a mailbox, crossed a ditch, and slammed into a tree in a residential yard. She was alone in the car, wearing her seatbelt, and was taken to McLaren Port Huron with injuries. Alcohol was not a factor. Emergency crews from the area responded quickly, and the crash remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair City Clerk Annette Sturdy is being recognized statewide after earning the annual City Clerk of the Year award. She’s held the role since ’14 and twice stepped in to run city operations during leadership changes, handling contracts, grant applications, and development projects. Sturdy also helped modernize city websites and launched a public text alert system. Known for community involvement, she leads local programs and events, including the Fourth of July fireworks. The award was presented June 18th at a statewide clerks conference.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Discovery City in downtown Port Huron is set to close its current location on Grand River Avenue on July 9th, earlier than originally planned, as it prepares to move into a new, permanent home on Huron Avenue. Museum leaders say work is already underway to design and build out the new space, though an official reopening date has not yet been announced. Memberships and sponsorships will be extended, and anyone with scheduled programs or rentals will be contacted directly as the transition moves forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Former Port Huron City Council member Alan Lewandowski has announced a run for mayor, setting up a likely November race against current Mayor Anita Ashford. He says the city needs better teamwork and a stronger direction, pointing to slowing business activity downtown and recent closures. Lewandowski, who served on council from 07 to 17, says he would focus on working closely with city staff, business owners, and community leaders, while also pushing for a clearer plan to support downtown during upcoming construction projects.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

State agriculture officials say an invasive insect has now been confirmed in St. Clair County, marking the first time the elm zigzag sawfly has been found in Michigan. The pest feeds on elm tree leaves, leaving a distinctive zigzag pattern and sometimes causing heavy defoliation, though healthy trees can recover. Officials stress the insect is not a threat to people or animals, but they are asking residents to report sightings through the MISIN app and take steps like cleaning gear and avoiding moving firewood to help limit its spread.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet