The Port Huron City Council is taking nominations for this year’s Spirit of Port Huron Awards, so it’s time for citizens to nominate someone they think has made Port Huron a better place to live.

The Spirit of Port Huron Awards were started in 1986 in an effort to recognize those who stand out in several categories of community oriented services.

Citizens of Port Huron, along with local groups, service clubs, and churches, can nominate people in the following categories:

BROTHERHOOD: A person who has displayed leadership in fostering understanding and promoting harmony  and good will among all. 

CIVIC: A person, business or organization who has significantly contributed time, talent or investment to make  Port Huron a better place to live, work and play. 

CULTURAL: A person who has encouraged the appreciation and advancement of the arts or heritage of Port  Huron and its citizens. 

ECONOMIC PROGRESS: A person or business that has invested or encouraged an investment in the  community that has stabilized or enhanced the economic climate and quality of life in Port Huron. 

GOOD NEIGHBOR: A person who has gone out of his/her way in an unsolicited manner to help a neighbor  or neighbors in an extraordinary manner. 

HEROISM: A person (or persons) who has risked personal injury or his/her life in a spontaneous act to save  others. 

LIFE ACHIEVEMENT: Bestows a special recognition on the rare individual who has consistently and  unselfishly given an extraordinary amount of time and personal effort over the course of many years toward the  betterment of the community and fellow man. 

YOUTH SERVICE: A young person who has displayed outstanding citizenship, principally through  community service activities. 

Nominations should be mailed to Mayor Pauline Repp and include:

1. Your name, address, and phone number. 
2. The nominee’s name, address and phone number. 
3. The category for which they are being nominated. 
4. A description of the activities that support the nomination. 

Mail nominations by July 14, 2022 to:

Office of the Mayor
100 McMorran Boulevard
Port Huron, Michigan 48060

 

Applications for Michigan’s State Historic Preservation Tax Credit program will be open on June 15th at 9 AM. Those who own commercial or residential properties in a local historic district or that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places or the State Register of Historic sites can apply for tax credit to offset the cost of maintaining or rehabilitating their buildings.

This tax credit program is new as of December 30, 2020, and the rules and details are different from a past program that was in place until 2012. The credits are available as either Michigan Personal Income Tax Credits, Michigan Business Income Tax Credits, or both, and the credits can’t exceed 25% of the total qualified rehabilitation expenses.

Michigan’s State Historic Preservation Officer Mark A Rodman said, “Throughout Michigan, we are fortunate to have many historic buildings that provide a sense of community history and opportunity for growth and investment. However, unused buildings often contribute to blight and further disinvestment. In many cases, a stimulus can often ensure that these important structures are maintained and rehabilitated.”

Rodman also said, “The new State Historic Tax Credit Program will assist in the revitalization of Michigan’s historic resources, resulting in vibrant, unique places where people want to live, work, visit, and play. We are excited to be able to offer this additional source for investment for both commercial and residential properties across the state.”

According to a press release from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the “State Historic Tax Credit Program will help support place-based projects while promoting the preservation of Michigan’s historic resources.”

To learn more visit:

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

 

A group called Citizens Supporting and Protecting Our Local First Responders is asking for the community’s support in the August 2nd primary. The millage proposal on the ballot called the Ambulance Service proposal will provide funding for EMS services in St. Clair County.

According to the group, demand for EMS services in St. Clair County has increased by 31% over the last 10 years, and funding for services hasn’t kept pace with the increase.

If the proposal passes, it would cost each household in St. Clair County around $50 per year (based on the $100,000 taxable value of a home), and that revenue will prevent EMS services from being reduced.

Ken Cummings, CEO of Tri-Hospital EMS, said, “EMS service is essential. It is a matter of life and death. We proudly answer the call anytime someone needs us, and now we are asking for help so that we can continue serving local residents. While call volumes and costs have risen, our funding has remained stagnant and that’s why we’re seeking community support on Aug. 2^nd.”

To learn more about Citizens Supporting and Protecting Our Local First Responders visit their website at:

https://www.sayyestoems.com/