By Jim Bloch
St. Clair County Community College added nearly $150 million to the greater Port Huron economy in fiscal year 2024-2025.
That is the key finding of a study conducted by Lightcast, a company contracted by the college to analyze its economic impact on the local economy.
The college reported the findings of the study on June 29.
The good news comes at a propitious time for the institution, which is asking St. Clair County voters on Aug. 4 to renew the college’s four-year .5 mill levy.
According to the press release, the study “highlights a significant and growing contribution (of SC4) to the regional economy, workforce, and overall community well-being… (T)he report shows that SC4 contributed $149.9 million to the St. Clair County economy in fiscal year 2024–25, representing an increase of nearly 9% compared to the previous study four years ago. This growth reflects the combined impact of college operations, construction activity, and student and alumni spending.”
Lightcast is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho and operates a regional office in Boston, Massachusetts.
The college’s main goal is the education of students. But much of its economic impact comes through athletics, including games and tournaments, theatrical performances, concerts, art shows, movies at SC4 Cinema, formerly Sperry’s Moviehouse, and the school’s annual STEM Fest.
“The college also strengthens the regional economy through strategic purchasing, partnerships, and the broader multiplier effect of its employees and students,” the college said in the release. “The study further underscores SC4’s value as an investment for students, taxpayers, and society, noting that associate degree graduates earn approximately $8,800 more annually than individuals with only a high school diploma, while also contributing to increased tax revenue, reduced reliance on public services, and improved health outcomes across Michigan.”
SC4’s recently announced partnership with Saginaw Valley State University allows students to pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree on the Port Huron campus.
“These findings confirm what our community already knows, SC4 is a vital investment in our future,” said Becky Gentner, chief financial and operating officer in a statement. “Our students succeed, our businesses thrive, and our region grows stronger because of the opportunities we provide.”
The millage
If voters approve the millage renewal, the tax will begin July 1, 2027, and run through June 30, 2031. The levy would raise about $3.73 million in its first year. The money would be used to support the school’s operations. The owner of a home with a taxable value of $100,000 – half the market value of the house – would pay $49.32 per year to the college.
The college serves about 4,000 students each year.
Jim Bloch is a freelance writer based in St. Clair, Michigan. Contact him at bloch.jim@gmail.com.
