Chesterfield Township residents are opposing a proposed auto auction center at 25 Mile and Bates roads. Nearly 500 people have signed a petition citing health, safety, and environmental concerns. Residents voiced their worries at a public hearing, emphasizing potential water contamination, noise, and traffic. While developers insist it’s not a junkyard, residents plan to attend the upcoming Planning Commission meeting on January 21st to voice their opposition. Petition organizers are urging more community involvement to halt the development.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is warning local residents about recent break-ins at the Storage of America facility on Range Road in Kimball Township. Over the past six months, both the Sheriff’s Office and Port Huron Police have been investigating thefts. Some customers may not realize their units were targeted, so authorities urge everyone to check their belongings. If you think you’ve been affected and haven’t reported it, you’re requested to call St. Clair County Central Dispatch.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Health Department is urging residents to take steps to prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses as cases of flu, RSV, COVID-19, and norovirus rise locally. Officials recommend staying home when sick, practicing good hygiene like washing hands and covering coughs, and keeping shared surfaces clean. Residents are also advised to stay hydrated, eat well, rest, and improve indoor airflow. The health department emphasizes talking to healthcare providers about vaccines to protect against these illnesses.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Starbucks has ended its open-door policy, which allowed non-customers free use of restrooms and internet, at its nearly 300 Michigan locations and nationwide. The change prioritizes paying customers. The new conduct code bans discrimination, outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling. The open-door policy started in 2018 after a racially charged incident in Philadelphia. There are two Starbucks in the Port Huron area and two in Sarnia.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Lambton Kent District and St. Clair Catholic School Boards are revamping kindergarten registration in Sarnia-Lambton and Chatham-Kent. The LKDSB minimizes paperwork, urging online pre-registration to free up time for classroom exploration and meeting staff. They host events on January 30 and 31. Meanwhile, SCCDSB’s KinderSTARt events are currently running through January 23rd and offer similar familiarization opportunities. Both boards are committed to easing the transition for young students, helping families feel more comfortable with this new chapter in their lives.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County’s Board of Commissioners held a workshop on Thursday to address conflicts with the Economic Development Alliance (EDA). The meeting highlighted residents’ split opinions on the importance of the nonprofit. Some residents, mostly from smaller townships, criticized the EDA for a lack of transparency and unwanted projects. Others supported the EDA for its role in attracting jobs and investment. The county commission had paused funding for the EDA, sparking debate on its future. A second workshop is set for tomorrow.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet