Local News

In Sarnia, Police Chief Derek Davis is drawing scrutiny for spending taxpayer money on marketing videos to promote a proposed $91 million police headquarters. Freedom of Information records show more than $10,000 was paid for videos meant to boost public support—without going through a public tender. The spending comes as a legal fight escalates between the police board and Mayor Mike Bradley, who cut funding from the ’26 budget, calling it unaffordable. The board argues the new facility is legally required for effective policing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac residents can kick off St. Patrick’s Day early with live Irish music on Sunday, March 15th. The Sanilac County Historical Society is hosting a fundraiser concert at the Blue Water Sports Bar. The local band Ourselves will perform Irish ballads and songs inspired by Michigan’s Great Lakes. Admission is free, but a $5 donation helps support the county’s Historic Village and Museum. The bar will also serve half Reuben sandwiches for $5. It’s a festive way for neighbors to celebrate St. Patrick’s weekend and local history together.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Downtown Algonac is looking a little more festive this winter. Dozens of decorated snowmen now line the St. Clair River as part of Algonac’s first Snowman Decoration Contest, drawing families downtown through February 28th. The 20 snowmen, built and decorated by local groups and businesses, feature everything from classic winter looks to humorous. The $1,800 raised from the displays is helping buy new chairs for the Algonac Community Center. City leaders say the strong turnout may make this snowy showcase a new winter tradition.

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

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