The St. Clair County Health Advisory Board voted Wednesday to back a staffing shift at the county health department. The plan replaces a nurse practitioner who’s leaving next month with a deputy physician assistant, a move aimed at keeping clinics running and reshaping leadership. Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin says he’ll boost his on-site hours to help fill the gap during hiring, which could take three months. Officials say the change won’t raise costs since it refills an existing job. The proposal will be reviewed in early April.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fort Gratiot Township leaders have decided to hold off on a $1 million contribution toward fixing the Black River Canal after strong pushback from residents. The canal, linking Lake Huron and the Black River, has been closed since early ’24 due to ice damage. Port Huron is leading the $5.6 million project, but Fort Gratiot officials say they’ll wait for construction bids later this month before committing any funds. Many residents argue township tax dollars shouldn’t go toward a waterway they rarely use.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet