Every Wednesday, the TFG Blog posts a series of articles published over the previous week that discusses topics of interest to local governments. Learn about emerging trends and keep up on key policy issues by browsing the TFG Wednesday News Roundup!
What Governments Need to Know About the New Municipal Advisor Rule
It’s been a confusing road for the creation of a new category of financial advisor – municipal advisors – who will be regulated by the federal government. So confusing, in fact, that the feds delayed implementation of the Municipal Advisor Rule by half a year to July 1st. The rule is now in effect, but how to apply it is far from resolved. Read More…
National ‘311 for Cities’ Aimed at Growing Local Economies (Interactive Map)
When citizens have complaints or issues about sidewalks, potholes, stray animals and other non-emergency items, many can call their city's 311 interface. Now, under the Obama Administration’s Strong Cities, Strong Communities initiative, cities can contact the National Resource Network to request and receive support from national experts on community development, economic development, operations budget and other key issues. This pilot program currently includes 50 cities across the country; additional cities will be added in the future. Read More…
For Sale: Vacant Lots of Chicago Blocks, Just $1 Each
Empty lots have multiplied in parts of Chicago in recent years, so the city is selling them to homeowners dirt cheap. It’s an effort to spark renewal in some of the city’s most blighted areas. Read More…
New Bedford Redevelops for Wind, Solar
New Bedford isn’t just joining the green movement for the environmental benefits, but for massive projected savings in the cities annual budget. With a goal of cutting its annual energy costs by $1 million, the City of New Bedford, MA is using federal tax credits, incentives and private funding to complete a $53 million clean energy project. Read More…
Senate Democrats Plan July Push for on Export-Import Bank, Woo Chamber
Senate Democrats intend to take up legislation this month reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank in the hope that a strong bipartisan vote in the chamber will help spur House Republican leaders to take up the measure. “I believe we will bring the bill to the floor in July, before the August break…” Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) stated to reporters. Read More…
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