For Friday, July 12, 2024

1 – Homeowners associations will be prohibited from banning certain energy improvements and solar energy systems under a state House bill approved by the Senate. 

The bill was signed by the governor earlier this month (July 8). 

WDET reports that the Homeowners’ Energy Policy Act prohibits homeowners associations from banning rooftop solar panels.

The bill’s sponsor, from Canton, told WDET there are still setback requirements and solar panels must meet the aesthetics of the neighborhood.

According to the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association, energy-saving improvements covered by the act include clotheslines, heat pumps, insulation, rain barrels, reflective roofing, energy efficient appliances, solar water heaters, electric vehicle supply equipment and energy-efficient windows.

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2 – The Tittabawassee River Trail in Saginaw County is a 2.5-mile segment that follows the eastern banks of the Tittabawassee River and provides unique views and opportunities for wildlife observation. 

The trail features a 1,400-foot boardwalk, one of the largest in the region. 

Organizers say continued habitat restoration planned in the corridor will restore critical wildlife habitat and support public access and recreation.

The nonprofit Great Lakes Bay Regional Trail officially opened the segment in late June along with the representatives from Tittabawassee Township and trustees from a Dow-funded settlement.

Proposed Saginaw Bay Restoration Projects, Scrap Tire Cleanup Tally, Great Lakes Day Priorities

The new trail segment extends from Hayes Park in Freeland to the Midland County line. The vision is for a 100-mile trail network across the region. 

For more information about the Great Lakes Bay Regional Trail, see greatlakesbaytrails.com.

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3 – Michigan Spark Grants have gone to 29 communities hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic, including Standish. 

The $24.2 million in Spark Grants are designed to remove barriers to public recreation opportunities.

The city of Standish was awarded $958,500 for a new nature trail and park, making it the first locally owned park in the community’s history. 

The funding is administered by the Council for Michigan Foundations in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard at 6:45 and 8:45 Friday mornings on Delta College Public Radio 90.1 FM in University Center, Michigan, near Bay City (listen live). Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

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