Your MLive news to know today, Oct. 16, 2026

Key Points:

• Van Buren Township’s Planning Commission approved the site plan for Google’s 1.5 million-square-foot “Project Cannoli” data center in a 5-1 vote, allowing developer Panattoni to start utility installation and site improvements despite community opposition over environmental and property value concerns.
• The data center near Detroit Metropolitan Airport is expected to use 2 to 3.6 million gallons of water daily and require 1 gigawatt of electricity, comparable to the needs of 750,000 homes, and is projected to create 50 to 200 jobs.
• Midland High parents are challenging the MHSAA’s handling of a football fight that led to player suspensions, raising concerns about selective officiating, player safety, and potential racial bias after three players were ejected and two ejections overturned on appeal.
• Cedric Blackwell Sr. is advocating for mental health awareness after his son, Joryan Blackwell, died by suicide following a mental health crisis and a shooting incident, urging others to recognize warning signs and seek help early.
• Former Tawas City police Sgt. Branden M. Kirby was charged with felony embezzlement for allegedly stealing $1,500 from the department’s evidence room to pay off TikTok debt; he was fired after the chief discovered the shortage and contacted state police.