Local News

A recent fire destroyed an East China Township apartment complex, leaving residents with nothing. The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has set up the SCC Strong Fund to support them. Every dollar donated will go directly to helping these residents recover, without any fees taken by the Foundation. The fund will provide aid through all stages of disaster response, from immediate relief to long-term rebuilding, ensuring the community’s resilience. Donations will help both the affected individuals and the broader St. Clair County recovery efforts.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

State Rep. Greg Alexander of Carsonville introduced House Bills 4027-28 to restore local control over energy project siting from the Michigan Public Service Commission. The bills aim to address the need for over 200,000 acres for energy developments by 2035. Currently, Michigan has about 17,000 acres for wind and solar projects. The Sanilac County Board of Commissioners has opposed state control over local zoning for these projects. The bills have been referred to the House Energy Committee for consideration

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron police are investigating after a man was found shot to death just minutes after a vehicle fire nearby. Officers responded to a burning car on Vanness Street, then were called to a home blocks away, where they found 35-year-old Vincent Buckles dead from multiple gunshot wounds. Investigators believe the fire may have been arson and are working to determine if the incidents are connected. The Michigan State Police Crime Lab is assisting, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia City Council has restricted Councilor Bill Dennis after a workplace violence and harassment investigation. Dennis is barred from City Hall, except in limited cases, and can only attend Council meetings virtually. The investigation found Dennis breached workplace harassment policies. Council implemented measures to protect staff, including blocking Dennis’s email communication with staff. Dennis, who is suing the city, claims the decision is a “political vendetta.” Council denies exceeding recommendations. The investigation cost just over $71 thousand.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County’s Earth Fair returns to Goodells County Park in April, celebrating its 23rd year with hands-on activities, exhibits, and environmental education. Friday welcomes 1,000 local students for interactive learning, while Saturday is open to the public. Exhibitor registration is now open, with a March 15 deadline. The Emerging Environmentalist Scholarship offers $1,000 to St. Clair County students pursuing environmental careers, with applications due March 1. The Green Guardian Award honors individuals and groups making a difference, with nominations due by March 15.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The trial for a Clay Township man accused of killing a St. Clair County eviction officer is set to begin next week. Michael Stickler, 50, is charged with first-degree murder in the ’23 shooting of Robert Silver, who was serving an eviction notice at Stickler’s home. Stickler appeared in court Monday, but no plea deal was reached. Jury selection begins Feb. 4th, with prosecutors planning to call Silver’s family, law enforcement, and forensic experts as witnesses. If convicted, Stickler faces life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet