WARREN, Mich. – The Warren City Council is refusing to pay nearly $5 million in city bills because the administration won’t pay for legal services that Mayor Jim Fouts says the council sought “illegally” earlier this year. The council voted on Dec. 8 not to pay city bills until the city paid a legal firm that was hired by the council in May. Warren City Attorney Ethan Vinson argues that the city council “exceeded the scope” of its authority when securing an attorney from Plunkett Cooney on May 12. The City Council is litigating the tax rates, city budget issues, and other matters in this lawsuit. The city council is committed to paying all city vendors and contractors as this is our legal obligation.

A corporate takeover of the marijuana industry in Michigan is creating concerns for those who rely on the plant for health benefits and more. Some people argue that corporate operations are working to cut out caregivers, who grow and sell marijuana to their medical patients. The Marijuana Regulatory Agency has cut a major supply chain of pot, which is affecting patients and business owners, who are experiencing a shortage. Patients are concerned that the battle between local and corporate operations and the shortage of some products might raise marijuana prices for those who need it most. Watch Hank Winchester’s full report in the video player above.