St. Joe takes ownership of historic lighthouses

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. -- It's official. The St. Joseph, Michigan lighthouses have a new owner. The city of St. Joseph voted to take over the lighthouses from the federal government earlier this year.



The keys were handed over Monday morning during a ceremony at Tiscornia Park.



"The city's motto is holding on to the past, and reaching out to the future. By taking possession of the lighthouse, that allows us to preserve this important part of our past, and make sure it endures for future generations," said John Hodgson, Community Development Director.



The city is now responsible for repairs to the 106-year old lighthouses.



Officials are working to raise $2-million so they can open the lighthouses to the public.