Local News

St. Clair County leaders are moving forward with plans to update animal control rules after a packed and emotional meeting Thursday. A committee voted 5-to-1 to send the changes to the full County Board on May 21. Under the proposal, police would handle criminal animal cruelty cases, while animal control focuses on shelters, licenses, and civil complaints. Sheriff King said his department is not taking over but will work together on serious cases to follow state law. Some residents fear it could weaken quick responses to animal welfare calls.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is pausing repairs on the Black River Canal to wait for expected federal funding. The canal has been closed since an ice jam damaged the Tainter gate in January of ’24. City Manager James Freed says a federal rescue plan is now in both houses of Congress. He expects money could arrive between March and May of next year, with construction starting soon after and the canal reopening in summer of ’28. Freed says using local tax dollars now would not be smart.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Nearly 1,500 eighth graders in St. Clair County will step out of the classroom and onto a college campus this month for a hands-on look at future careers. St. Clair County Community College is hosting the visits over four days later this month, bringing in students from districts countywide. Kids will try virtual reality, see emergency response demos, and explore tools like 3D printers and CAD software. Organizers say the goal is simple: show students that college and career paths are real, reachable, and right in their backyard.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron city leaders say the Military Street Pocket Park is finally nearing the finish line after years of delays, with a full opening now expected by the end of May. Crews are actively building the new riverfront pavilion at Water and Military streets, with framing mostly complete and roofing set to begin soon. Concrete work is planned later this month. The redesigned space will feature seating, walkways, and views of the Black River, creating a new downtown spot for small events, music, and community gatherings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bird watchers in Sarnia-Lambton had a chance to celebrate the return of migratory birds while learning how to protect them. A free event took place Saturday morning at Canatara Park’s Carriage House, in honor of World Migratory Bird Day. The event featured hands-on activities, local conservation groups, and a costumed “Regal Eagle” for photos. Visitors also learned simple steps like planting native species, reducing nighttime lighting, and preventing window strikes to help birds traveling along the Lake Huron shoreline flyway.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron leaders are moving to tighten sidewalk safety rules as electric bikes and scooters become more common across the city. A proposed ordinance would ban motor-powered use of e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds on sidewalks, though riders could still use them if pedaling or pushing without the motor. The plan also sets new rules for regular bicycles, including a 15 mile per hour speed limit, yielding to pedestrians, staying to the right, and giving an audible warning before passing. Violations would be treated as civil infractions if approved.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet