9/08/2025

IRON RIVER – Iron County, Michigan commissioners voted 3-2 at their last meeting to maintain local 911 dispatch services, despite concerns about staffing. The decision follows voters’ approval of two millages in February to fund the dispatch center until 2027. Commissioners Patti Peretto and Pete Judd argued against contracting with neighboring counties, emphasizing that the millage indicates voter support for local services. Peretto also said the board shouldn’t decide while dispatch services are still funded with 2024 millage. The next board meeting is on Tuesday. Gogebic and Ontonagon 911 calls are handled through a regional dispatch center in Negaunee. 

9/08/2025

UPPER MICHIGAN - Concerns are rising over declining teen vaccination rates in Upper Michigan, which have dropped to 65%, five points below the state average. Houghton County mirrors this 65% general vaccination rate. Experts warn a 95% community vaccination rate is crucial for protection. Low rates, especially for measles, pose high contagion risks. Houghton County could see 200-300 measles cases and 60-70 hospitalizations, overwhelming healthcare. Measles can cause severe complications, including death. While statewide kindergarten immunization rates only slightly dipped, some schools have alarming rates as low as 30-40%. Health departments are educating the public and offering vaccines, aiming to rebuild trust and continue the success of vaccines in preventing diseases.

9/08/2025

PARK FALLS – Drivers in Park Falls in Northern Price County be advised of a mistake made Friday night with the road markings at the intersection of County E and Highway 13.  The painted road markings telling drivers to make a right turn into oncoming traffic from the left lane instead of indicating the lane is for left turns onto 9^th Street only.  There is a traffic light at the intersection with a left turn arrow for that lane.  No word on when the road marking mistake will be corrected.