Local News

Port Huron’s voter-approved plan to sell its scenic riverfront city hall at 100 McMorran Boulevard has quietly expired at the end of ’25 without a single deal. Back in ’23, locals strongly supported the idea by a two-to-one margin, hoping to turn the aging building into mixed-use development like shops and housing while keeping public access to the St. Clair River walk. City Manager James Freed explained that no qualified buyer stepped up, and finding an affordable spot to move city offices proved impossible amid high costs and few suitable buildings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron teens are in for an uplifting treat as the popular BLOOM event returns. This fun-filled night just for girls focuses on building confidence and celebrating their unique worth with the theme “Masterpiece.” It all happens Friday, February 27th, at McMorran Place in downtown Port Huron. Doors open at 5 p.m., and general admission tickets are $20. Grab them starting midnight January 9th at ABeautifulMe.com—get 50% off, just $10, for the first 24 hours only.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In St. Clair County, the Community Foundation just wrapped up ’25 with a heartwarming final grant of $3,510 to Kind Human 4 Human Kind. This local group helps families in need, supports people experiencing homelessness, and runs programs that bring neighbors together every day. Thanks to generous donors right here in our community, the foundation continues to connect caring people with important causes, fund nonprofits, build endowments, strengthen local programs, and provide scholarships for students.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron Township welcomed Marcie’s Soul Food at 1735 24th St., replacing the old Red Pepper Mexican space. Owned by locals Marcie McDowell and her daughter Dominic, the spot serves scratch-made soul food favorites like catfish, ribs, oxtails, and pork chop sandwiches with rotating daily specials. Marcie runs the kitchen full time, while Dominic travels from Florida to help. The restaurant blends classic comfort food with old-school music and friendly service. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, noon to midnight.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia residents will see their city property taxes rise by about 3.95 percent this new year, adding roughly $42 more per $100,000 of home value. City council approved a $196 million budget to cover rising costs for basics like water, roads, and sewers while fixing old infrastructure. They’re spending $65 million on repairs, including flood-preventing sewer work and road fixes, but delayed a new police station to keep the tax hike lower. Final tax bills depend on county and school board decisions later this year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Horse owners in St. Clair County should stay alert after a 13-year-old gelding tested positive for strangles just before Christmas. The horse showed signs like fever, runny nose, and fast breathing starting mid-December. He is now quarantined at home to stop the spread. Strangles is a very contagious bacterial infection that passes easily between horses through contact or shared items. Local barns are reminded to quarantine new arrivals, clean equipment thoroughly, and watch for early symptoms to protect their herds during the holiday season. Most horses recover fully.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet