As the ink dries on the ballots, the fate of transportation funding hangs in the balance with voters facing a considerable array of measures. With over 300 transportation-related initiatives on the ballots across various states, which collectively exceed $70 billion, the implications are profound. This pivotal moment is not just about funding; it’s about shaping
Politics
The ongoing legal challenge against Oklahoma Treasurer Todd Russ and key members of his office has spotlighted the tensions surrounding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing practices. Filed by FOIA Professional Services, this suit underscores allegations of document withholding and possible destruction related to the state’s controversial efforts to regulate financial firms based on their
In a decisive move reflecting the growing urgency of climate change, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has thrown his support behind a policy that would prevent the city’s pension funds from investing in fossil fuel infrastructure. This proposed strategy is poised to make three significant retirement systems in New York City pioneers in the
The Chicago City Council’s recent decision to approve a refinancing plan for $1.5 billion of the city’s debt is a significant move given the city’s financial landscape. With an intention to issue new bonds by the fourth quarter of 2024, this initiative is seen as a critical strategy to manage Chicago’s mounting financial burdens and
In a bid to enhance the municipal securities landscape, the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) convened for its inaugural quarterly meeting of Fiscal Year 2025 on October 23-24. Central to the discussion was the impending issuance of a request for information regarding the board’s rate card fee setting process. This initiative, along with various rule
North Carolina is on the verge of a significant transformation in its transportation infrastructure, particularly regarding the Interstate 77 corridor in Charlotte. The decision to pursue a public-private partnership (P3) for a project that involves adding toll lanes has sparked discussions throughout the state and beyond. This article delves into what this means for North
The Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA) of 2022 has stirred significant controversy among participants in the municipal markets, prompting a flood of comments submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as the submission deadline approached on October 21. Issuers of all sizes, from larger entities to smaller municipalities, have voiced their apprehensions regarding the
The recent investor conference hosted by Houston Controller Chris Hollins has illuminated existing tensions between his office and that of Mayor John Whitmire. The event, held without participation from several key city officials, has sparked accusations surrounding fundraising ethics and transparency. The disagreement primarily revolves around corporate sponsorships, which Mayor Whitmire labeled a potential “pay-to-play”
Houston, the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the United States, finds itself grappling with a perfect storm of financial challenges. Natural disasters exacerbate an already tenuous fiscal landscape, spotlighting the structural budget deficits that threaten to compromise the city’s financial health. Mayor John Whitmire’s recent outreach to state officials for assistance
As the temporary relief provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) begins to wane, municipalities across the United States confront the formidable challenge of sustaining their financial health. With local governments previously relying on a combination of federal stimulus funds, robust tax collections, and favorable market conditions, there’s a pressing need to reevaluate fiscal