7/22/2026

ASHLAND - Ashland officials say the search for a new public works director has produced few results. The Ashland Daily Press reports that City Administrator Brant Kucera told the City Council that a monthlong search through a recruiting agency has found no candidates. The city did receive two email applications. Outgoing director John Butler leaves at the end of July. Kucera says the search could take six months, citing competition from larger cities and Ashland’s remote location. In the meantime, public works division heads will share Butler’s duties.

7/22/2026

MICHIGAN – Yesterday the Michigan bipartisan budget for Fiscal Year 2027 was signed into law.  In A press release from Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office says the FY27 budget addresses costs and opportunities for Michigan residents, healthcare, roads and small businesses.  The budget includes $200 million toward continuing free school meals for the 1.4 million public school students, Continues tax exemptions on tips, overtime and Social Security, gives $68.5 million in funding for Michigan small businesses, $343 million more for local road funding, for a total of $3.1 billion in road funding, and another $52.7 million in additional funds for state and local roads and bridges. 

7/22/2026

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is expected to rally in Oakland County in downstate Michigan on Monday as early voting begins in Michigan’s Aug. 4 primary. The visit comes as voters prepare to choose party nominees for an open U.S. Senate seat, governor and other key races. Democrats are locked in a competitive Senate primary between U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed, while Republicans are contesting the open governor’s race. Trump carried Michigan in 2016 and 2024.