The redevelopment is part of a brownfield program through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), which transforms blighted or contaminated properties into community assets.

While most area districts returned to session earlier in the week, Lake City officials remained closed as 15% of county roads remained impassable and thousands of residents lacked electricity.

The emergency declaration allows for more state assets to assist in restoration efforts following a combination of high winds and heavy icing that began Sunday night. While Consumers Energy has restored power to 90,000 people across Michigan, northern regions remain the primary focus of recovery as crews deal with fresh outages.

The storm has primarily impacted Wexford, Missaukee, Osceola and Roscommon counties. In Wexford County, Emergency Management Director Erik King reported that 10,000 of the 33,000 residents are currently without electricity.

The surge in shoppers comes as road conditions turn hazardous and snow continues to fall. Store managers noted that while they expected fewer customers due to the weather, many residents are making last-minute trips to ensure they have enough food and winter supplies to last through the weekend.

Stephanie Park, the adoptive mother of Rebecca Park, is planning two memorials this spring to honor her daughter and unborn grandson.

Michael Mattzela, the Osceola County Road Commission manager, said crews have been busy attempting to repair dirt roads that have become littered with holes. While the commission has received some complaints about the state of rural routes, Mattzela noted that the current condition of the ground makes some treatments counterproductive.

The center was forced to shut down during the winter’s coldest months to address serious security issues, including threatening messages sent to staff and clients. Officials also reported infighting among visitors and suspected drug activity at the site. The reopening follows the implementation of new safety measures and building renovations designed to improve privacy and oversight.

She said there are concerns this year about long-lasting effects from debris and fallen wood from the ice storms.

Cortney and Bradly Bartholomew appeared in court today for a hearing related to the death of Rebecca Park and her unborn child. Defense attorneys requested competency examinations for the couple.

Breeders who sold dogs to Michelle Dallaire, a former resident of Lake County who has been charged with animal abuse said they have signed contracts that they can get the dogs returned when instances of animal abuse happen.

The Cherry Grove Township Fire Chief in Wexford County said the dangers of wildfires are dependent on the weather but it can happen at any moment.

Since then, DDA Director Travis Owens said the DDA has gotten calls inquiring if a farmer’s market would continue at the Market space.

City council members discussed a couple of grants that would help homeowners make improvements and enhance the downtown dock.

At Monday night’s city council meeting, a presentation of an audit of Cadillac’s budget for fiscal year 2025 was given by Joe Verlin of Gabridge & Company.