MORENCI — The 2025 annual Morenci Education Foundation Dinner and Auction is dedicated to Ted and Ivy Hutchison, two devoted alumni who have given a lot to Morenci.
Education foundation to recognize Hutchisons for service to community
Fall Fest returning to downtown Morenci on Oct. 4
MORENCI — The Morenci Fall Fest, hosted by the Downtown Development Authority, is back for its fourth year.
This year’s event is larger than before, stretching across all of Main Street from Summit to Baker, and along North Street from Main to Locust.
The free autumn celebration takes place on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 4-11 p.m.
Community input sought on city’s master plan
MORENCI — The city of Morenci is seeking community input as it moves forward with the update of its master plan.
A master plan is a community-driven policy document that helps guide local decisions about land use, housing, infrastructure, and economic development. State law requires Michigan communities to review their plans every five years to determine whether they reflect current priorities and conditions. Morenci’s existing plan, adopted in 2016, is being updated to capture new opportunities, address evolving community needs, and guide the city’s long-term vision.
Hart descendants mark 50 years of annual reunions
MORENCI — Harold and Caroline Hart raised 11 children in their home at 220 W. Locust St. in Morenci. And it was just a few blocks away that their descendants gathered for the 50th anniversary of the annual Hart family reunion on Aug. 9.
The reunion was started in 1975 by Hazel Bear, their oldest daughter, and has been going ever since.
New speed signs to be installed soon
MORENCI — New signs that tell drivers their current speed are due to be installed soon in Morenci.
Last month, the Morenci City Council approved the purchase of two solar-powered speed monitoring signs to be placed on both ends of Main Street. City clerk and superintendent Jeff Bell said they should be in place by the end of September.
City of Morenci seeks residents’ input on trees
MORENCI — The city of Morenci is developing a long-term Urban Forestry Management Plan and is seeking input from residents to help shape it.
Council approves additional full-time police officer position
MORENCI — A fourth full-time position has been approved for the Morenci Police Department. At their Aug. 11 meeting, council members agreed to move one of the city’s part-time officers, Nathan Adams, to full-time status.
Work already underway for 2026 Town and Country Festival
MORENCI — The 2025 Town and Country Festival at Wakefield Park may only be a few months in the past, but work is already underway for next year’s festival.
State grant could help residents with home repairs
MORENCI — The city of Morenci plans to apply for a Community Development Block Grant from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to help low- to moderate-income residents with home repairs.
The application would be for $1.18 million, with $1 million going to repairs and $180,000 being used for program administration.
If the city’s grant application is approved, Mayor Tracy Schell noted at last month’s city council meeting, the funds would only be for owner-occupied, single-family homes, removing concerns that landlords might snap up all the money.
Schell said the grant would help homeowners who have trouble affording necessary repairs.
“This is to help out folks that want to get some stuff done, but they just don’t have it,” she said.
“I think it’s a great opportunity,” council member Kori Christle said. “It’s only going to enhance our city; it’s only going to attract people to our community.”
A public hearing, which is a requirement of applying for the grant, is scheduled for the Sept. 8 city council meeting, which will take place at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 118 Orchard St.
New coach sees lots of potential in this year’s varsity volleyball team
MORENCI — The Morenci varsity volleyball team is looking to change the trajectory and culture of the program during the 2025 season.
First-year head coach Erin Ekins aims to bring stability and passion to the student athletes.