County Information

Changes in school start times and bus routes are prompting a new traffic order for bus-loading and student pick-ups at Congress School in Sturgis. As a result, members of the Sturgis City Commission have approved a new traffic-control order that moves the school-bus loading zone from Walker Avenue to East Congress Street. Consequently, all remaining student pick-ups will occur on …

Members of the Three Rivers Water Festival Planning Committee are inviting anyone interested in helping organize the 2016 event to a special meeting this evening. The 60th annual community festival takes place June 16, 17 and 18, and event organizers are seeking input regarding ideas for a theme, activities and entertainment. Today’s meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Three …

Three Rivers Health Board of Trustees reported a net income of more than $145,000 for October and net income in excess of $314,000 for the year to date. The financial update was provided during the hospital’s recent board meeting. In addition, preparation continues for the 2016 operating and capital budgets, and the Studer Groups Leadership Evaluation Manager program continues on …

Sturgis city commissioners this month approved an agreement to sell electric power generated by the city’s diesel plant. Putting that power into the regional electric grid will generate an estimated $400,000 in payments to the city, municipal officials said. Commissioners also clarified and expanded language in a downtown business district zoning ordinance to allow for limited-purpose fencing. Masonry walls will …

Construction of the new Sturgis senior center is on track for an early-March move-in, according to St. Joseph County Commission On Aging officials. Furthermore, COA officials said there may be a buyer for the current Paul Cassault Center, the longtime Sturgis home of south-county senior services. Lynn Coursey, COA executive director, said the new site under construction on North Franks …

A committee to help design a proposed sports complex in the Three Rivers area was assembled earlier this month. Three Rivers municipal officials sought help from the River Country Recreational Authority to establish a committee, whose members would help plan the layout of the multi-field facility. The committee is comprised of Jim Stuck, Fred Beuter, Curt Penny, Mike Charvat, Lindsay …

The city of Sturgis has gone on record supporting four neighboring townships in calling for the St. Joseph County Road Commission to put a dedicated road- millage proposal before the county’s voters. Members of the Sturgis City Commission earlier this month agreed they will support an additional property tax to pay for local road construction and repair. A resolution endorsing …

New development is coming to South Centerville Road in Sturgis. Tractor Supply Company is expected to relocate into a portion of the current Kmart facility and share the remainder of the space with a new Dunham’s Sports. The move will result in five times more floor space for TSC, compared to its current location, at 1313 S. Centerville Road. Officials …

Members of the Three Rivers Community Schools Board of Education next month are expected to share results of its evaluation of superintendent Jean Logan. Work started on the task Monday, as the board met in executive session to begin the evaluation process. Between now and the board’s December meeting, the evaluation will be typed and prepared for public release. Logan, …

Ren Hartung, professor of science at Glen Oaks Community College, has received the Trends in Occupational Studies Outstanding Educator award. College officials said Hartung was nominated for his work and excellence within the classroom, professional achievements and service to the college. He recently accepted the award at the annual Trends Conference in Traverse City. Hartung is said to be engaged …