Local News

In St. Clair County, folks are buzzing about new rules for solar and battery storage plants. Today, the Health Department will chat about these plans at 5 p.m. in Port Huron’s County Building. No votes, just talk. The rules aim to keep noise low, hide plants from view, and ensure companies can clean up later. This comes as Fort Gratiot neighbors worry about a new solar project’s impact on their homes and health. Check the county website for details.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Historical Society has unveiled its ’25 History Lecture Series, set to begin May 23rd. Hosted at the Village Church in Port Sanilac, the series will feature ten lectures covering topics from Mackinac Island’s history to the Titanic’s last meal. Special performances by local musicians will kick off each event. Tickets are $10 for the public, $5 for members, and $45 for a full season pass, offering great value for history lovers. The series promises to educate and inspire all ages.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two people in connection with the ’18 death of 3-year-old Matthew Maison from Port Huron Township. The arrests, made after recent developments, involve a man and a woman, though their identities are being withheld. Matthew’s death was ruled a homicide in ’21, caused by blunt force trauma and asphyxiation. The boy’s grandparents expressed mixed emotions on social media following the arrests. Both suspects are currently in St. Clair County jail awaiting further proceedings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Kiefer Park on Thursday, St. Clair County residents gathered to honor crime victims during Victims’ Rights Week. Organized by the local group P.S. You’re my Hero, the event saw participants tossing flowers into the St. Clair River in memory of those lost and affected by crime. Founder Mara McCalmon, who lost her husband to murder, shared her frustration over victims’ needs often being overlooked in court. She voiced her concerns after Michigan’s Supreme Court ruled life sentences unconstitutional for 18-year-old offenders.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Clay Township man, Michael Stickler, was sentenced to life in prison for killing eviction officer Robert Silver in December of ’23. Stickler shot Silver when the officer arrived to inform him about an upcoming eviction due to unpaid property taxes. Silver had been to the property multiple times before. After a standoff, Stickler confessed to the shooting. He was also sentenced to two years for felony firearm use, to be served after his life sentence.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron area drivers can now support local youth development by purchasing the new Michigan 4-H license plate. Available through the Secretary of State, the plate features the iconic 4-H clover, with $25 from each purchase going directly to Michigan 4-H programs. The $35 plate helps fund hands-on learning for over 137,000 youth across the state, offering experiences that build skills and confidence. With the plate’s launch, Michigan 4-H hopes to boost awareness and funding for its programs.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet