The Mason City Council voted 4–3 Monday night to approve a 90-day moratorium on a proposed zoning ordinance tied to future data center development, following hours of emotional public comment at a packed City Hall.  Residents voiced concerns about potential long-term environmental and financial impacts, including rising utility costs and the risk of losing their homes. One resident urged council members to slow the process, saying additional time is needed to ensure families are not burdened by increased expenses or displacement.

 

Meanwhile, tensions were also high at the Lansing City Council meeting, where residents criticized the Human Relations and Community Services Department over transparency related to five proposed sites for 50 modular housing pods intended to provide temporary shelter for people experiencing homelessness.  One of the proposed locations, the former Shabazz Academy site, drew particular criticism. A resident cited safety and infrastructure concerns, noting the nearby pedestrian overpass could pose security risks and that the parking lot is uneven, poorly graded for rainwater runoff, and in disrepair.

 

In Eaton County, Charlotte Mayor Tim Lewis resigned effective immediately. His departure follows the recent exit of the city clerk and the city manager’s two-month notice, creating a wave of leadership turnover that is expected to be addressed at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting.

 

Drivers in Mid-Michigan are also being advised of temporary traffic disruptions. The ramp from I-96 westbound to U.S. 127 northbound is closed Tuesday and Wednesday for striping and traffic control removal as part of the final phase of the U.S. 127 rebuilding project. Additionally, the ramp from U.S. 127 southbound to Dunckel Road will experience intermittent closures during the same period.

 

In Jackson, police recovered more than $50,000 in stolen merchandise following a retail fraud investigation. Authorities say a local store initially reported more than $8,000 in stolen goods, but further investigation revealed the suspect had allegedly committed similar thefts at multiple stores across the state. A search warrant executed at the suspect’s Eaton County residence led to the recovery of the stolen items.

 

The Diocese of Grand Rapids responded to a report released Monday by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, which accused 51 priests of sexual abuse dating back to 1950. Many of the accused priests are presumed deceased. During a press conference, Bishop David Walkowiak issued a public apology to survivors, expressing remorse and acknowledging failures by church leadership. He also said the diocese has implemented safeguards to prevent future abuse.

 

Finally, a Michigan Lottery player is celebrating an historic win. A ticket sold in Chesterfield Township matched all six numbers in Saturday’s Lotto 47 drawing, earning nearly $33 million—the largest jackpot ever recorded for the game.