Port Huron Township officials have hit pause on data center construction, giving themselves time to write new rules for the massive facilities. The township board unanimously passed a temporary moratorium this week, blocking any new applications for data centers and other high-demand power users. Officials say no applications are currently on file, but they want regulations in place covering noise, lighting and safety concerns before any company comes knocking. The pause could last up to a year, or until permanent zoning rules take effect.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is set to gain more than a hundred new jobs, as Governor Gretchen Whitmer announces a major expansion for automotive supplier U.S. Farathane. The Auburn Hills-based company is planning a new high-bay manufacturing facility in St. Clair County, backed by a state performance grant and local tax incentives, with a total investment nearing twenty-two million dollars. Officials say the project beat out competing offers from Mexico and several other states, keeping the jobs right here in Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

If you missed the back to school rush, Port Huron families still have a shot at free backpacks. Blue Water Community Action is giving away backpacks stocked with supplies, from preschool through high school, to kids who still need one. Just stop by the office on Lapeer Road, Monday through Thursday, seven-thirty to five. Bring proof of St. Clair County residency, and your child must be with you to receive a backpack. Supplies are limited, so don’t wait!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

More than 300 people gathered in Port Huron Monday for a chamber luncheon spotlighting growth across St. Clair County. Congresswoman Lisa McClain said the area has received more than $14 million in federal funding since ’22, with $6 million more for the Black River Canal awaiting Senate action. She urged residents to attend upcoming meetings and speak up as officials weigh new data center proposals. Leaders also touted new housing, industrial projects and expanded mental health services.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Downtown Port Huron is gearing up for a weekend of smoky flavor and family fun as The Wrigley Center hosts its Barbeque Throwdown, this weekend. Pitmasters will battle for bragging rights while specialty food vendors, live music and beverages fill Grand River Ave. Organizers say the festival offers something for every age, from competition barbecue to hands-on activities for kids. Gates open at 4 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday, running until 11 each night. Details and registration are online at thewrigleycenterfestivals.com.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A twenty-six year old Port Huron man is dead after his vehicle rolled over on eastbound I-94 near Wadhams Road in Kimball Township late Saturday night. St. Clair County deputies say the man was partially thrown from the vehicle and trapped underneath it after leaving the roadway around eleven-forty p.m. Kimball Township Fire and Tri-Hospital EMS crews responded but couldn’t save him. Investigators believe speed and alcohol played a role in the crash, and say no other vehicles were involved. The Crash Investigation Team is on it.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet