Local News

The Port Huron City Council has approved a new policy aimed at keeping more city workers local. Under the plan, full-time employees who live within Port Huron will get a 5% pay boost. City leaders say it’s a voluntary way to strengthen neighborhoods and improve response times, especially in police and public works departments. Mayor Anita Ashford says it’s about building community pride and keeping tax dollars in town. The policy takes effect later this month after a unanimous council vote last Monday night.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities say there was no danger to students or staff after a substitute teacher brought two antique blades to Bad Axe High School last Wednesday. Before classes began, a staff member reported seeing one of the items, prompting Principal Craig Archer to step in. The teacher explained they were historical artifacts used for a lesson about world travel. As a precaution, Archer removed the blades, and the school resource officer secured them until they were taken off campus. Superintendent Greg Newland thanked staff for acting quickly to keep the school safe.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Michigan woman is suing the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, claiming it broke the state’s open records law by refusing to release unedited video of deputies shooting a dog. Laura Wilhelm-Bruzek says the department’s heavy redactions hide key details of the December 13th incident outside the county animal shelter. Her attorneys argue the public deserves to see what really happened before and after the shooting. The sheriff’s office says deputies fired after the dog bit one of them and kept acting aggressively as they tried to bring it inside.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Burtchville Township woman accused of stabbing her boyfriend on Thanksgiving is set to stand trial April 7th. Deputies say 28-year-old Taylor Spigner attacked her boyfriend with a knife, sending him to Lake Huron Medical Center, where he recovered. Spigner faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. A plea hearing is scheduled for March 9. She remains in the St. Clair County Jail on a $250,000 bond and could face life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Beautiful Me is gearing up for its 8th Annual “Bacon & Bubbles” fun run this June 13th in Port Huron. The lively event starts at the DoubleTree along the St. Clair River, with both a 5K and a one-mile walk for runners and families alike. Participants can look forward to the group’s signature treats — sizzling bacon, bacon-covered donuts, and plenty of bubbles along the route. Event proceeds help A Beautiful Me continue its mission of boosting confidence in young women across the Blue Water area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

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