‘The Barn’ asked Saline Township for a $147M tax break, after boosting the data center’s value by 9 times from the original request. The township OK’d a cut — but dialed back the amount.
Rural Michigan
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan bill legalizing backyard deer feeding passes, but bans could remain
Deer baiting and feeding has been banned in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula since 2018 to prevent disease spread. A new bill aims to change that, but even if it’s signed by the governor, feeding deer may not be allowed everywhere.
Posted inBusiness Watch
As data centers grow in Michigan, officials ask: How many tax breaks are enough?
Local tax abatements were created for manufacturers that create tons of jobs. As Saline Township is set to approve a local break worth $147 million a year, some ask if local breaks are appropriate for data centers.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan cherry growers brace for small harvest. Some cancel U-Pick
Spring frosts meant summer troubles for Michigan cherry farmers, who are lowering expectations and offerings.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan would allow hunters to kill ‘bonus’ buck under proposed pilot program
Deer hunters who go out in the Lower Peninsula during the 2027 season will be limited to ‘one buck,’ but if the earn-a-second-buck program is implemented, they could potentially kill an additional antlered deer.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Sturgis closure may be ‘first of more’ for Michigan rural hospitals
After more than 100 years, Michigan’s only federally recognized rural emergency hospital closed its doors citing ‘years of ongoing financial challenges.’ Experts say more could follow given the current health care landscape.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | ‘Save Our Bacon Act’ would hurt Michigan’s farmers, rural communities
Congress should respect state authority, uphold voter-approved laws and support a food system that rewards innovation, responsibility and consumer trust rather than weakening those values.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Amid dam sale critiques, Consumers offers to send profits to safety fund
As it urges regulators to approve a dam sale plan that a judge called “not in the public interest,” Consumers has offered to funnel $270 million in ratepayer dollars into the special fund. Critics say the company shouldn’t be entitled to those profits in the first place.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Which rivers are Michigan’s best? Vote for your favorites now
Help us decide the most underrated river, the best to camp along, the best to float down and more as part of the Bridge Michigan River Awards.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan floods expose lack of information, preparation in many rural areas
The April floods that inundated half the state caught many unprepared — and uninsured.