Here’s a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the stories we’re following. Have a reading recommendation? Let us know at nina@planetdetroit.org.
Rate debate: Michigan’s Public Service Commission staff supports a smaller DTE rate increase, though the implications for consumers are still being discussed. (S&P Global).
Lead rush: Detroit is securing $90 million in funding to accelerate the replacement of lead service pipes. (Axios, Fox 2 Detroit).
Street help: Detroit’s street medicine program for the homeless receives a $500,000 funding boost to enhance its healthcare services (BridgeDetroit).
Dollar cleanup: Dollar stores in Detroit are beginning to address community concerns by cleaning up their stores and reducing the negative impact on neighborhoods. (BridgeDetroit).
Sewage standoff: Macomb County leaders are demanding a pause on an Oakland County permit due to concerns about sewage discharges affecting their water quality (Michigan Advance).
Cherry crisis: Michigan’s cherry season was so disastrous that Governor Whitmer is urging federal action to support affected farmers (MLive).
EJ upgrade: Michigan updated its MiEJScreen tool to improve data sharing and address environmental justice concerns more effectively (Michigan Public Radio).
Nuclear drama: The safety of Michigan’s Palisades Nuclear Plant remains a contentious issue, with ongoing debates about its future (HuffPost).
Algae spill: Harmful algal blooms in Muskegon Lake have spilled into Lake Michigan, though tests show no toxins at a nearby beach (MLive, Michigan Public Radio).
Recycling fail: Michigan’s electronics manufacturers are falling short of their recycling goals. (Bridge Michigan).
Flint your: A clean energy tour focusing on climate change initiatives is coming to Flint as part of a broader effort to promote local climate action (MLive).
E-boats? The next phase of electric revolution in the Great Lakes involves EV boats, aiming to cut carbon emissions from watercraft. (Detroit News).
Green boost: Detroit is set to receive $50 million in federal funds for transportation-related green infrastructure upgrades like electric vehicle charging stations. (WDET).
EBike success: New rules for electric bikes in Michigan are making recreation more accessible, with support from state and advocacy groups – though one’s chance of being badly injured by an e-biker on a trail may have increased. (Michigan Public Radio)
Solar town: Rural planning officials have approved a large solar farm in Ann Arbor after years of opposition, marking a significant step for renewable energy in the area (MLive).
PFAS fallout: The U.S. Air Force is refusing to clean up drinking water it polluted in Tucson, AZ, following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Chevron doctrine. (The Guardian)
Turtle tally: Federal funding will support Michigan’s efforts to count and protect rare turtles, a slow but crucial conservation project. (Bridge Michigan)