Lansing Extends Code Blue as Cold Snap Returns; Local and State Issues Make Headlines
The City of Lansing has extended its Code Blue cold weather emergency plan as another round of bitterly cold temperatures moves into Mid-Michigan.
City officials announced the emergency activation will remain in effect through at least 7 a.m. on February 14. With frigid conditions expected tonight and into Saturday, several local facilities will continue operating as warming centers and emergency shelters for those in need.
The extension is intended to ensure vulnerable residents have safe options during dangerous winter weather.
NAACP Condemns Proposed East Lansing Camping Ban
A proposed ordinance in East Lansing aimed at restricting public camping has drawn sharp criticism from the Lansing chapter of the NAACP.
The measure would make it illegal for homeless individuals to sleep or rest in public spaces unless shelter alternatives are available. Supporters argue the ban would address public safety concerns, but opponents say it unfairly punishes people with nowhere to go.
Khadja Erickson of the NAACP told 1320 WILS the proposal could actually make homelessness worse.
“Nothing about this proposed camping ban would facilitate someone getting into housing any faster,” Erickson said. “In fact, enforcement of this ordinance upon passage will make more people even further away from attaining permanent housing.”
The issue is expected to remain a point of contention as city leaders continue debating the proposal.
Lawmaker Proposes Longer Michigan Deer Hunting Season
A Michigan lawmaker is pushing for an extended deer hunting season in an effort to reduce the state’s deer population and cut down on vehicle collisions.
State Representative Jennifer Wortz says she plans to introduce legislation that would lengthen the current season.
“I do have a proposal that we would extend the hunt until March 1st and then open it back up,” Wortz said.
Supporters believe a longer season could help control deer numbers and reduce the number of crashes involving deer each year.
Eaton County Faces Lawsuit Over “Flag Man” Records
Eaton County is facing a lawsuit from the family of Colin Campbell, widely known as the “Flag Man” of Haslett.
Campbell was found dead last month after walking away from the Delta Township Retirement Center. His relatives say the county has refused to release public records they believe are crucial to understanding what happened.
County officials maintain they cannot release certain details while law enforcement continues to investigate the case.
Campbell was a familiar figure in the community, known for waving an American flag during daily walks along Marsh Road.
Sheetz Expansion to Bring Hundreds of Jobs to Michigan
Pennsylvania-based convenience store chain Sheetz has announced major plans to expand into Michigan, bringing hundreds of new jobs with it.
The company plans to begin opening 24/7 gas station locations in the Detroit area starting in 2026. Over the next five to six years, Sheetz expects to operate between 50 and 60 stores statewide.
The expansion is projected to create roughly 400 jobs this year alone.
While the economic boost is welcome news to many, some residents near proposed sites have raised concerns about potential increases in traffic and noise.
Michigan Lottery Warns of Online Scams
The Michigan Lottery is alerting residents to a growing scam involving fake gaming apps and websites.
Officials say scammers are using social media to advertise unauthorized platforms that falsely claim to be affiliated with the lottery. Victims are sold tickets with no intention of receiving legitimate entries.
The lottery is reminding players to only purchase tickets through authorized retailers or the official Michigan Lottery app to avoid being scammed.
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