Ann Arbor’s Recent Developments: ICE Opposition, School Threats, and Community Events

Ann Arbor’s Stance Against ICE Cooperation

Ann Arbor has joined Sterling Heights in opposing cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mayor Christopher Taylor advocates for a ban on ICE from city properties, aligning with Washtenaw County’s existing ban unless a warrant is present. This move underscores the city’s commitment to local law enforcement focusing on community safety rather than immigration enforcement. Source

Threat at Haisley Elementary School

An 18-year-old man faces terrorism charges for threatening Haisley Elementary School. He allegedly left notes on a classroom window threatening to shoot six people. The individual, who had been hospitalized since January 16th and cited mental health struggles, was arrested on January 28th and is now banned from school property. Source

Upcoming Community Events in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor offers a variety of events for residents to enjoy. Highlights include:

Board Game Night at Bløm Mead + Cider – January 28, 2026, at 5:00 pm
Letterpress Open Lab at Ann Arbor District Library – January 28, 2026, at 5:00 pm
“CommuniTEA Table” at The Washtenaw Food Hub – January 28, 2026, at 5:00 pm
“Gangdong-gu Travelogue” at Ann Arbor District Library – January 28, 2026, at 6:00 pm
“Roots & Shoots: Winter Root Vegetable Adventure” at Ann Arbor District Library – January 28, 2026, at 6:00 pm
Group Runs with A2 Runners – January 28, 2026, at 6:30 pm
“The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” at Fathom Entertainment – January 28, 2026, at 6:30 pm
Ann Arbor Bridge Club Meeting – January 28, 2026, at 7:00 pm
“First Wives Club” Screening at Michigan Theater – January 28, 2026, at 7:00 pm
“Comedy Jamm” at Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase – January 28, 2026, at 7:15 pm
Depot Town Open Mic Comedy Night – January 28, 2026, at 7:30 pm
“Wednesday Night Swing” with Swing Ann Arbor – January 28, 2026, at 7:30 pm
University Philharmonia Orchestra Performance at U-M Music School – January 28, 2026, at 8:00 pm

For more details, visit the Ann Arbor Observer’s events page. Source

Washtenaw County’s Bicentennial Preparations

Washtenaw County is preparing for its bicentennial celebration in 2026. The County Commission has formed a working group to plan programs and events for the commemoration, partnering with Destination Ann Arbor for graphic support. The logo for the celebration highlights the past, present, and future of the county. Source

Temporary On-Street Parking Ban in Ann Arbor

The City of Ann Arbor declared a temporary on-street parking ban starting at 8 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026, due to a Winter Weather Advisory predicting 4 to 6 inches of snow. The ban will remain in effect until residential plowing is complete. Residents are encouraged to use off-street parking options during this period. Source

Ann Arbor’s Quality of Life Recognition

Ann Arbor has been ranked the top town for quality of life in the 2024-2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, contributing to residents’ high satisfaction levels. Source

Ann Arbor District Library’s Acquisition of the Ann Arbor Observer

The Ann Arbor District Library announced plans to acquire the Ann Arbor Observer, a beloved local publication serving the community since 1976. The acquisition aims to ensure the publication remains in public hands, accessible to all residents, and continues its mission as an independent local news source. Source

Ann Arbor Public Schools’ Response to ICE Activity

In response to recent ICE activity in the area, Ann Arbor Public Schools Superintendent Jazz Parks emphasized the district’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for all students. The district has established clear response protocols regarding ICE presence on campuses and near school buses, ensuring that every child has a right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status. Source

Border-to-Border Trail Expansion

The Border-to-Border Trail (B2B) in Washtenaw County is expanding, with planning underway for a segment from Hudson Mills Metropark east to Bandemer Park. This segment will closely follow the Huron River and Huron River Drive, including a tunnel under the Michigan Line railroad tracks. The B2B aims to connect various parks and provide a continuous non-motorized trail across the county. Source

A2ZERO Home Energy Advisor Milestone

The A2ZERO Home Energy Advisor program has helped over 500 Ann Arbor households receive customized plans for advancing sustainability, energy efficiency, and health. Launched in the spring of 2024, the program offers free, comprehensive on-site home assessments and provides written reports detailing recommendations and resources for residents to save money and make their homes more sustainable. Source

Green Rental Housing Ordinance Implementation

The City of Ann Arbor’s Green Rental Housing Ordinance went into effect on January 6, 2026. The ordinance requires every rental unit in Ann Arbor to meet a minimum energy efficiency standard, aiming to improve sustainability and reduce energy consumption across the city’s rental housing sector. Source

Upcoming Events in Ann Arbor