Board Meeting Erupts, Supervisor Walks Out

A heated Clay Township Board meeting on Monday turned chaotic when Supervisor Paul Cassidy and Treasurer Jerry Galka walked out after a dispute over public comment. The tension began when a resident mentioned an alleged social media message from Galka criticizing a past campaign. Cassidy tried to cut her off and called for removals, but police refused, saying no laws were broken. Trustee Jon DeBoyer challenged Cassidy’s handling, and after Cassidy and Galka left, DeBoyer took over as chair. With a quorum still present, the board completed its agenda.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Pilot Station Gets $1M Upgrade

Port Huron’s working waterfront got a $1 million boost as the Lakes Pilots Association upgraded its St. Clair River station. Improvements over the past five months include two new boat wells, a reinforced seawall, new cabins, eye beams, and docks. Association president Capt. Tony Brandano says the upgrades protect the shoreline and strengthen daily operations. The project wraps up in two weeks, keeping the 17 pilots—who guide ships from Port Huron to Buffalo—safe and ready on one of the Great Lakes’ most challenging waterways.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Brown City Drug Arrest

A Sandusky woman was arrested in Brown City last Thursday night, after a Sanilac County Drug Task Force traffic stop on Main Street. The 29-year-old tried to flee but was quickly taken into custody. Officers, with the help of a K9, found suspected Meth and Crack Cocaine in her vehicle. She’s now in the Sanilac County Jail facing multiple charges. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and remind residents to report suspicious drug activity anonymously.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Hit-and-Run Kills Man

A fatal hit-and-run is under investigation in Cottrellville Township after 34-year-old Thomas Israel of St. Clair was found dead near his bicycle on M-29 early Monday morning. Deputies say the driver struck Israel and left the scene around 3:30 a.m. First responders confirmed he died before help could arrive. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is now working to identify the suspect vehicle. Township officials are urging the driver to turn themselves in, calling the tragedy inexcusable. Anyone with tips is asked to call 810-987-1727.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Coast Guard Keeps Float Down Safe

The U.S. Coast Guard and local agencies worked nonstop during Sunday’s Port Huron Float Down to keep thousands of participants safe on the St. Clair River. Strong winds created rough water, pushing many floaters off course toward Canada. Thirty Coast Guard boats and a helicopter responded to emergencies, from capsized kayaks to boats filling with water. Despite repeated warnings against the event, crews stayed busy all day, but no major injuries or deaths were reported. Officials say teamwork among agencies ensured everyone made it home safely.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet