Local News

St. Clair County voters are gearing up for a familiar showdown as they head to the polls on November 5. Yale Police Chief Warren Head, after losing the Republican Primary to incumbent Sheriff Mat King, is making a comeback as a write-in candidate. With no Democrat in the race, King appeared to have a smooth path to re-election. Head, who garnered nearly 44% of the primary votes, is urging voters to consider him again, emphasizing that this election allows everyone a chance to support their preferred candidate.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron has recently enhanced pedestrian safety by upgrading four busy crosswalks to include audible signals, benefiting those with visual impairments. City Manager James Freed emphasized that these improvements are crucial for accessibility, particularly for families and students who use these crosswalks daily. The upgrades, located at Gratiot Avenue, Garfield Street, Erie Street, and McMorran Boulevard, feature high-visibility signals and vibrating push buttons that alert pedestrians. The project also improved nearby Palmer Park with new sidewalks.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the St. Clair County Drug Task Force made its largest bust ever last week, seizing 370 pounds of cocaine worth $16.5 million from a semi near the Blue Water Bridge. The driver was arrested and is awaiting charges in St. Clair County Jail. The task force, led by the Sheriff’s Office with help from local police and Homeland Security, praised K9 Brock and other units for their role in the operation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Eastern Michigan Small Business Network completed its first round of funding for Region 6 small businesses, including Lapeer, Huron, Sanilac, and St. Clair counties. Over 500 businesses applied for the annual grants. Sanilac County recipients include Elk Street Brewery & Tap Room, Polly’s Alterations, S.J. Organic Farms, and Steaks & Cupcakes LLC. The Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County managed the program, aiming for significant local economic impact. The next grant round is next year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

16 year old Carmello Wilson was found guilty of second-degree murder after fatally shooting KC Curtis Cureton, 19, during a confrontation on Lapeer Avenue in Port Huron. Arrested in July ’23, Wilson was also convicted of resisting arrest and using a firearm in a felony. The jury’s verdict avoided a first-degree murder charge, which requires premeditation, but Wilson still faces a life sentence. Wilson claimed self-defense, saying he feared Cureton, but the prosecution disputed his account. Sentencing is set for December 12th in Circuit Court.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A recent study by doxo.com reveals that Michigan voters care most about the economy, with 52% saying it will impact their vote this November. In Port Huron, households spend $1,722 a month on bills, which is 19% lower than the U.S. average. Port Huron ranks as the 149th most expensive city in Michigan, with household bills making up 42% of an annual income of $48,639.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet