While we ring in the New Year, 2026 will see a continuation of many of the same environmental issues we experienced through 2025. But this year is also a mid-term election year, and that could further complicate issues. 48th District State Representative Jennifer Conlin discusses what may come in 2026. The Ann Arbor Democrat joined WEMU's David Fair and co-host Lisa Wozniak to explore current and new challenges.

The Humane Society of Huron Valley is asking for the public’s help in locating a man caught abusing a dog on camera. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

One issue that earned plenty of attention in 2025 in Washtenaw County was data centers. That's not likely to change in 2026. As WEMU's Kevin Meerschaert reports, area lawmakers are already working on legislation.

A final decision on the future of the Saline River, or Mill Pond, Dam is expected in the coming few months. WEMU's Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The City of Ann Arbor has been working toward an equitable vision for the city’s future. This includes affordable housing, carbon neutrality and neighborhood resilience projects, in addition to embracing values that reflect the city’s commitment to human rights. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor talked to Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor, who takes a look back at his time in office over the past year while offering a glimpse into the city’s future projects and aspirations as we enter 2026.

Happy New Year from WEMU and from Marquee Arts! In this special, New Year's Day edition of "Cinema Chat," WEMU's David Fair and Marquee Arts cinema programming director, Nick Alderink, look back on 2025 and ahead to what this year will bring.

Ann Arbor State Senator Jeff Irwin says he wants to make the most out of 2026, his final year in the state Legislature. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The City of Ann Arbor is looking for places to host public electric vehicle charging stations. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The Washtenaw Intermediate School District is hoping to weather past potential future funding cuts with new enriching programming through the new year. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

2025 is wrapping up, and one of the primary issues raised over the past year is the proliferation and impacts of data centers. In 2026, we're likely to see some of these centers move toward becoming operational. Weighing economic benefit against potential environmental harm will continue, and there will be more vocal support and outrage for each proposed center. WEMU's David Fair got together with Washtenaw County Resiliency Office Director Beth Gibbons to try and compute the impact of data centers in Washtenaw County.

The Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) is investing more than $8 million in road improvements next year. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

Weekly benefits for Michigan workers who file for unemployment benefits will increase in 2026. Rick Pluta explains.