As 2025 comes to a close, MLive has reflected on significant stories that have shaped Michigan communities. In recent months, reporting has focused not only on what happened but also on the implications of these events. From local government decisions to deeply personal narratives, these stories highlight the critical role of journalism in understanding the issues that affect people’s lives.
Data Centers Spark Community Backlash
In local government meetings across Michigan, the construction of massive data centers emerged as a contentious issue. Residents crowded these meetings, urging officials to reject proposals from tech giants. Jen Eberbach, an Ann Arbor-based reporter, explored the tough question of why local officials would consider projects despite strong community opposition. Her investigation revealed a sobering reality: many small townships lack the financial resources to contest these projects. One township near Ann Arbor indicated that a single legal loss could cost as much as $25 million, a daunting prospect for local governments. This finding underscores the importance of local reporting in highlighting power imbalances that influence decision-making.
A Soldier’s Return After 75 Years
On December 11, 1950, U.S. Army Capt. Charles Graham Gibson Jr. was declared missing in action during the Korean War at the Chosin Reservoir. For decades, his family in Saginaw awaited news of his fate. In October, closure finally came when his remains were returned to Michigan for burial. Justin Engel, a Saginaw-based reporter, emphasized that the story of Gibson’s return serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing search for missing veterans. The narrative resonates not only on a local scale but also nationally, reinforcing the message that the quest for answers continues until every soldier is accounted for.
Investigating Paraquat’s Hidden Dangers
In a significant investigation, Rose White introduced the public to paraquat, a potent weed killer linked to serious health risks. The story of Emilio Lopez, a migrant worker who died of kidney failure at age 37 after working on a West Michigan farm, brought attention to this issue. Although the direct cause of his death was not definitively established, White uncovered alarming information about the chemical, which is banned in several countries, including the U.K. and China. This reporting has expanded beyond Michigan, revealing that paraquat is used on farms across the U.S., from Pennsylvania to Oregon. Further collaboration with investigative reporters, including Matt Miller and Maggie Kates, has uncovered troubling accounts of farmers who believe long-term exposure has led to Parkinson’s disease.
Humanizing Policy at a Homeless Shelter
Recent changes at a Kalamazoo homeless shelter introduced a lottery system aimed at longer-term housing strategies, but this policy risked leaving vulnerable residents without support. Brad Devereaux reported on the challenges faced by individuals like Nick Hawkins, a homeless man with no legs, as he navigated uncertainty about shelter availability. Following the publication of this story, the shelter announced it would accommodate all individuals on its list. Remarkably, an anonymous donor also pledged $23 million to combat homelessness in Kalamazoo. Hawkins not only secured a spot at the shelter but is now receiving assistance for prosthetics from a local agency, illustrating how journalism can bring attention to systemic issues while also providing a voice to those affected.
Environmental Concerns Over Private Development
Environmental reporter Garret Ellison uncovered significant details regarding a proposed “eco-resort” near the Boyne River, following a seemingly innocuous item in a township newsletter. His investigation revealed plans for a reservoir-style lake that could restrict public access, raising concerns among environmentalists and anglers. Ellison’s reporting has sparked important discussions about the balance between development and public access to natural resources. The release of new documents through Freedom of Information Act requests promises to fuel further reporting in 2026, shedding light on this critical issue.
Amidst the Sherrone Moore Scandal
While the national headlines focused on University of Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore‘s firing and arrest, MLive’s sports team worked diligently to separate fact from speculation. Reporter Andrew Kahn highlighted that Moore’s personal issues were not a secret within the university community, raising broader questions about accountability in sports institutions. By leveraging local expertise, MLive provided a more nuanced perspective on a rapidly evolving story, demonstrating the value of thorough journalism in times of crisis.
These stories, diverse in nature, showcase the commitment of MLive journalists to uncover the truth and highlight issues that matter to Michigan residents. As 2026 approaches, the newsroom remains dedicated to covering local and statewide concerns with integrity and passion. Readers are encouraged to reflect on these stories and share their thoughts on what topics should be pursued in the coming year.
