Good morning, Portage.

The Michigan Court of Claims approved class certification for residents and businesses hurt by the 2020 dam collapse—an event that caused about $200 million in damage, destroyed over 2,500 homes, and forced 10,000 evacuations—and set a trial for January 2026 to decide liability.

Portage council approved tougher standards for new buyers in Stanwood Crossings—restrictions include limits on fencing, approval for outbuildings like swimming pools, and a ban on parking trucks that require a commercial driver’s license while allowing yard signs and home occupations. Construction began on the first of 42 homes last month, and the new rules will take effect as the development progresses.

Portage officials remind residents to use insect repellent with DEET and wear long sleeves to cut the risk of mosquito bites that can spread Jamestown Canyon—West Nile viruses.

They also advise removing standing water and checking screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Kalamazoo is planning an affordable housing project on a 15-acre site at the former state Health and Human Services facility on Stockbridge that will include single-family homes, apartments, duplexes, quad-plexes and cottages.

Deputy City Manager Rebekah Kik said local construction firms may bid on the various parts of the project once public input is gathered.

Western MI Parade of Homes 2025

6 PM – 7 PM — Home Builders Association — Cost not specified — Experience inspiring home designs at the 35th Annual Parade of Homes.