City of Port Huron March 9, 2026

The City of Port Huron held a council meeting on March 9, 2026, which included extensive public commentary on homelessness and community housing needs. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a detailed presentation regarding the Black River Canal and Tainter Gate repair project. The city manager proposed a $5.6 million repair plan, including issuing $3 million in bonds and establishing a special assessment district for properties along the canal to fund the city's share. The project requires cost-sharing agreements with Port Huron and Fort Gratiot Townships, which have yet to commit funding. The council approved a notice of intent to issue bonds up to $6 million to facilitate negotiations but took no immediate action on bond issuance. Additionally, the council accepted bids for chemical supplies for the wastewater treatment plant and approved a $119,350 contract with T.J. Priest LLC for Sanborn Park Pool parking lot improvements and ADA accessibility. The meeting also included resolutions supporting local control over housing decisions and the adoption of council goals for the 2026-27 fiscal year. Public comments highlighted urgent community needs for affordable housing and homelessness services, emphasizing the importance of coordinated local efforts and funding.