Local News

A judge has struck down St. Clair County’s new rules on solar power projects, saying the county overstepped its authority. Circuit Judge Michael West sided with DTE Energy and Portside Solar, ruling the county’s health codes were actually zoning laws in disguise. The decision means local limits on noise, visibility, and cleanup won’t take effect—at least for now. County leaders meet Feb. 19th to decide whether to appeal, revise, or drop the ordinance. The ruling mirrors similar solar-energy battles across Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Major improvements are coming to Lexington’s waterfront this year. State crews have begun work at Tierney Park while the harbor readies for big repairs expected to stretch into ’27. The $8 million project covers dredging, breakwall fixes, and new marina structures, meaning some boating closures ahead — including a full shutdown from September to May of ’27. Meanwhile, Tierney Park is getting an amphitheater, new restrooms, and a concession stand, with reopening planned for summer.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities in Sanilac County are still looking into a late-night break-in at Brown’s Marketplace in Deckerville. Deputies and local police rushed to the store around 10:30 last Friday night after a report of a burglary in progress. Officers set up a perimeter, and witnesses said someone was seen running from the scene. Investigators later tracked a 16-year-old suspect to a nearby home, where the stolen goods were found. The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with more details to contact their detective bureau.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Downtown Port Huron is heating up this weekend with the return of Chilly Fest, running Friday and Saturday. The annual winter festival takes over McMorran Place and the Wrigley Center with ice sculptures, live music, family fun, and the popular chili crawl and cook-off. Most events are free, but the chili crawl costs $10, with proceeds supporting local outreach. New this year, restaurants like Texas Roadhouse and Freighters are joining the lineup. Visitors can skate and sample creative chili recipes downtown, with winners crowned Saturday evening at the Wrigley Center.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Technical Education Center in Marysville is inviting local families to its annual Open House on February 19th, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event gives 10th graders and their parents a close-up look at hands-on career programs available to juniors and seniors—everything from computer programming and engineering to cosmetology, health care, and welding. Visitors can meet instructors, tour the labs, and learn how TEC helps students earn free college credits while preparing for jobs and college success.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Clinton Township man has admitted guilt in a road rage shooting that happened in Sterling Heights late last year. Police say 21-year-old Logan Shea pleaded guilty to firing a gun from a vehicle, assault with a weapon, and two counts of felony firearm. Investigators say Shea flashed a badge and pointed a gun at another driver before firing shots. Officers later traced a white Chevy Silverado to his home, seizing several weapons. Shea’s gun will be forfeited, and his sentencing is set for March 5th in Macomb County Court.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet