Tag #Local Government

Showing 157 to 168 of 188 results

theguardian.com

🌐 85% Global Worthiness

Dec 15, 16:12

Outdated UK Council Tax System Creates Regional Financial Disparities

UK council tax, unchanged since 1991, leads to significant financial disparities between regions, with those in cheaper areas paying more than those in expensive ones, despite the funding cuts to local services.

Outdated UK Council Tax System Creates Regional Financial Disparities

UK council tax, unchanged since 1991, leads to significant financial disparities between regions, with those in cheaper areas paying more than those in expensive ones, despite the funding cuts to local services.

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What are the main factors contributing to the growing financial burden on local authorities, and how does this impact the services they provide?

The unfairness stems from two sources: the outdated valuation system and the increasing strain on local authority budgets. House prices have risen significantly since 1991, yet council tax bands haven't been adjusted, creating disparity. Additionally, a growing portion of council budgets (two-thirds on average) funds social care, leaving less for visible local services.

cbsnews.com

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Dec 11, 07:11

Sacramento's New Mayor Prioritizes Combating Homelessness Crisis

Newly inaugurated Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty vows to tackle the city's homelessness crisis through immediate spending audits, stricter enforcement of anti-camping laws, and collaboration with the county to expand shelter and mental health services, despite concerns over sufficient capacity.

Sacramento's New Mayor Prioritizes Combating Homelessness Crisis

Newly inaugurated Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty vows to tackle the city's homelessness crisis through immediate spending audits, stricter enforcement of anti-camping laws, and collaboration with the county to expand shelter and mental health services, despite concerns over sufficient capacity.

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What is Mayor McCarty's plan to address homelessness in Sacramento, and how will his approach affect the homeless population immediately?

"Kevin McCarty was sworn in as Sacramento's mayor on Tuesday. His top priority is addressing the city's homeless crisis, starting with an immediate audit of related spending. He plans to enforce anti-camping laws, but also emphasized the need for collaboration with the county to create shelter spaces and mental health programs.",",A2="McCarty's approach contrasts with previous strategies. The Supreme Court's Grants Pass v. Johnson decision enables stricter enforcement of anti-camping laws. However, concerns remain about sufficient shelter capacity and the potential for increased sweeps without adequate alternative housing.",",A3="The success of McCarty's plan hinges on effective collaboration with Sacramento County, securing sufficient funding, and creating comprehensive shelter and mental health support systems. Failure to address these challenges could lead to increased displacement and exacerbate the homeless crisis.",",Q1="What immediate actions will Mayor McCarty take to address Sacramento's homelessness crisis and what are the potential consequences of these actions?",",Q2="How will Mayor McCarty's approach to homelessness differ from previous city strategies, and what factors might affect its success or failure?",",Q3="What are the long-term implications of Mayor McCarty's policies for Sacramento's homeless population and what critical perspectives should be considered to ensure equitable solutions?",",ShortDescription="Kevin McCarty, Sacramento's newly sworn-in mayor, prioritizes addressing the city's homelessness crisis, beginning with a spending audit and stricter enforcement of anti-camping laws, despite concerns over shelter capacity and the need for collaboration with the county for comprehensive solutions.",",ShortTitle="Sacramento's New Mayor Prioritizes Homeless Crisis with Spending Audit and Stricter Enforcement"

zeit.de

🌐 65% Global Worthiness

Dec 11, 19:12

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to Adjust Municipal Funding to Prevent Drastic Cuts

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is adjusting its financial relationship with municipalities to prevent drastic funding fluctuations and ensure fair kindergarten cost distribution. The changes, agreed upon with local government associations, will be legally implemented after further discussions and a January ...

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to Adjust Municipal Funding to Prevent Drastic Cuts

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is adjusting its financial relationship with municipalities to prevent drastic funding fluctuations and ensure fair kindergarten cost distribution. The changes, agreed upon with local government associations, will be legally implemented after further discussions and a January ...

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What immediate actions are being taken to address potential funding shortfalls for municipalities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and ensure equitable kindergarten financing?

"To prevent drastic fluctuations in funding, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern will adjust its financial relations with municipalities. The changes, agreed upon with local government associations, aim for equitable distribution of kindergarten costs between cities, municipalities, and districts. Legislation is needed to implement these solutions.",A2="Declining tax revenues threaten significant cuts to municipal funding in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern after 2025. To provide planning certainty, 2025 funding will remain at current levels, while surplus revenue will be shifted to later years to prevent a drastic drop in funding. This smoothing strategy was urged by local government associations.",A3="The shift to a cost-based contribution model for kindergarten funding addresses inequities where districts disproportionately shouldered costs. This change, along with the revenue smoothing, aims to enhance long-term financial stability and predictability for local governments in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The January 9th hearing with associations will play a crucial role before the final vote.",Q1="What immediate actions are being taken to address potential funding shortfalls for municipalities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and ensure equitable kindergarten financing?",Q2="How do declining tax revenues impact the proposed changes to financial relations between the state and municipalities, and what role did local government associations play in shaping these changes?",Q3="What are the long-term implications of the proposed financial adjustments for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's municipalities, particularly regarding the cost-based kindergarten financing model, and what challenges might arise?",ShortDescription="Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is adjusting its financial relationship with municipalities to prevent drastic funding fluctuations and ensure fair kindergarten cost distribution. The changes, agreed upon with local government associations, will be legally implemented after further discussions and a January 9th hearing, addressing declining tax revenues and shifting costs away from districts.",ShortTitle="Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to Adjust Municipal Funding to Prevent Drastic Cuts"))

welt.de

🌐 65% Global Worthiness

Dec 8, 07:05

"Saxony-Anhalt Counties Question Germany Ticket Funding for 2024"

"Saxony-Anhalt counties express concerns over Germany ticket funding in 2024, citing insufficient cost coverage despite a price increase to \u20ac58; some counties, like Stendal, are considering withdrawal if federal and state funding remains inadequate."

"Saxony-Anhalt Counties Question Germany Ticket Funding for 2024"

"Saxony-Anhalt counties express concerns over Germany ticket funding in 2024, citing insufficient cost coverage despite a price increase to \u20ac58; some counties, like Stendal, are considering withdrawal if federal and state funding remains inadequate."

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"How does the price increase to \u20ac58 impact the cost-effectiveness of the Germany ticket for both public transport operators and the counties involved?"

"The \u20ac58 price increase, while raising concerns, also yielded positive results in some areas. Increased ticket sales led to higher fares, reducing the need for county subsidies. This suggests that cost coverage might improve if ticket acceptance remains stable."

smh.com.au

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Dec 5, 10:09

Sydney Council Employee and Contractor Found Guilty of Corruption

A former Sydney council employee and a contractor were found guilty of corrupt conduct after the employee accepted over \$200,000 in perks in exchange for awarding his friend's company \$4.5 million in contracts, highlighting systemic failures in council recruitment and procurement processes.

Sydney Council Employee and Contractor Found Guilty of Corruption

A former Sydney council employee and a contractor were found guilty of corrupt conduct after the employee accepted over \$200,000 in perks in exchange for awarding his friend's company \$4.5 million in contracts, highlighting systemic failures in council recruitment and procurement processes.

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Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

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What specific actions constituted corrupt conduct by the council employee and contractor, and what were the financial implications for the council?

A former Sydney council employee, Benjamin Webb, accepted over \$200,000 in perks in exchange for awarding his friend's company, PMLV Invest and Const Pty Ltd, \$4.5 million in contracts. The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) found this corrupt conduct occurred between 2021 and 2022, recommending criminal charges.

apnews.com

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Dec 5, 22:09

Greensboro Mourns Passing of First Black Mayor Yvonne Johnson

Yvonne Johnson, Greensboro's first Black mayor and a longtime city council member, died Wednesday at age 82; she was a leader in civil rights and community service.

Greensboro Mourns Passing of First Black Mayor Yvonne Johnson

Yvonne Johnson, Greensboro's first Black mayor and a longtime city council member, died Wednesday at age 82; she was a leader in civil rights and community service.

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What is the significance of Yvonne Johnson's passing for Greensboro and North Carolina?

Yvonne Johnson, Greensboro's first Black mayor and longtime council member, passed away Wednesday at 82. She served nearly 30 years on the council, including two terms as mayor (2007-2009 and 2011-2023). Her contributions included significant work in civil rights and community service through organizations like One Step Further.

bbc.com

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Dec 14, 00:36

Stirling Council Explores Tourist Tax for 2027

Stirling Council in Scotland is exploring a tourist tax for overnight stays from 2027, following a new law and with a final decision expected in December 2025, aiming to reinvest revenue in local tourism infrastructure, based on 686,000 overnight visits in 2023 generating £205m.

Stirling Council Explores Tourist Tax for 2027

Stirling Council in Scotland is exploring a tourist tax for overnight stays from 2027, following a new law and with a final decision expected in December 2025, aiming to reinvest revenue in local tourism infrastructure, based on 686,000 overnight visits in 2023 generating £205m.

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Sustainable Cities and Communities

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What are the immediate implications of Stirling Council's decision to explore a tourist tax, and what specific financial projections are involved?

Stirling Council in Scotland is exploring a tourist tax, potentially starting in June 2027, following a new law allowing such levies. A council vote to consult residents and businesses precedes a final December 2025 decision. The proposed tax, added to overnight stays, could generate £1.5m-£2.3m annually at a 1% rate, or £5m-£7.5m at 5%.

immobilier.lefigaro.fr

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Dec 11, 10:42

French Town Offers Financial Aid to Attract Young Homebuyers

Marolles-les-Braults, Sarthe, France, will provide \u20ac5,000 + \u20ac1,000/child (under 15) to first-time homebuyers under 40 starting January 1, 2025, to combat its aging population and numerous vacant properties, with a 5-year resale restriction.

French Town Offers Financial Aid to Attract Young Homebuyers

Marolles-les-Braults, Sarthe, France, will provide \u20ac5,000 + \u20ac1,000/child (under 15) to first-time homebuyers under 40 starting January 1, 2025, to combat its aging population and numerous vacant properties, with a 5-year resale restriction.

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How does this initiative address the town's demographic challenges and vacant housing stock?

This initiative addresses a declining and aging population and aims to revitalize the town. An estimated 550 residents are over 70, and several school classes have closed since 2020. The program hopes to fill vacant properties and stimulate the local economy.

nos.nl

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Dec 8, 04:06

Netherlands Implements Increased Border Checks with Minimal Initial Disruption

Increased border controls in the Netherlands begin Monday, focusing on combating human trafficking and illegal immigration; despite initial concerns from border mayors, the Royal Marechaussee will use existing resources, minimizing expected disruption.

Netherlands Implements Increased Border Checks with Minimal Initial Disruption

Increased border controls in the Netherlands begin Monday, focusing on combating human trafficking and illegal immigration; despite initial concerns from border mayors, the Royal Marechaussee will use existing resources, minimizing expected disruption.

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What are the immediate practical effects of the increased border checks on cross-border traffic?

Starting Monday, increased border checks targeting migration will be implemented by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, utilizing existing personnel. This approach, confirmed by Winterswijk mayor Bengevoord, will largely maintain the status quo regarding border traffic, minimizing disruptions.

zeit.de

🌐 65% Global Worthiness

Dec 8, 07:05

Saxony-Anhalt Districts Question Deutschlandticket Funding

Saxony-Anhalt districts express concerns over Deutschlandticket funding in 2024, citing insufficient cost coverage despite a price increase to €58; some districts are reconsidering participation, while others see potential for improved cost coverage due to increased ticket sales; Stendal secured the...

Saxony-Anhalt Districts Question Deutschlandticket Funding

Saxony-Anhalt districts express concerns over Deutschlandticket funding in 2024, citing insufficient cost coverage despite a price increase to €58; some districts are reconsidering participation, while others see potential for improved cost coverage due to increased ticket sales; Stendal secured the...

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What are the immediate financial implications of the Deutschlandticket's €58 price tag for Saxony-Anhalt's districts?

Several districts in Saxony-Anhalt express concerns about the 2024 Deutschlandticket funding. A price increase to €58 does not cover actual public transport costs, according to multiple districts. The Deutschlandticket relies on public funding, and some districts are deciding whether to continue offering it.

smh.com.au

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Dec 5, 01:11

NSW Government, Ku-ring-gai Council Reach Agreement on 23,200 Homes

The NSW government and Ku-ring-gai Council reached a confidential agreement to build approximately 23,200 homes near four train stations on Sydney's upper north shore by May 2024, resolving a legal dispute over higher-density housing plans.

NSW Government, Ku-ring-gai Council Reach Agreement on 23,200 Homes

The NSW government and Ku-ring-gai Council reached a confidential agreement to build approximately 23,200 homes near four train stations on Sydney's upper north shore by May 2024, resolving a legal dispute over higher-density housing plans.

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What were the council's initial concerns that led to the legal challenge, and how will the agreement address them?

This resolution ends a dispute over the state government's transport-oriented development (TOD) program. The council, initially opposing the program due to concerns about infrastructure and green space, will now collaborate with the state to develop alternative planning controls. This collaboration aims to match or exceed the original TOD housing targets.

nrc.nl

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Dec 5, 01:11

Dutch Parliament Member Resigns, Citing Democratic Concerns

Senna Maatoug, a GroenLinks-PvdA member of the Dutch parliament since 2021, resigned on December 18th, 2023 to become Utrecht's alderman for mobility, climate, and energy, citing concerns about the state of Dutch democracy; this is the sixth such resignation this year.

Dutch Parliament Member Resigns, Citing Democratic Concerns

Senna Maatoug, a GroenLinks-PvdA member of the Dutch parliament since 2021, resigned on December 18th, 2023 to become Utrecht's alderman for mobility, climate, and energy, citing concerns about the state of Dutch democracy; this is the sixth such resignation this year.

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What are the immediate consequences of Senna Maatoug's resignation from the Dutch parliament?

Senna Maatoug, a GroenLinks-PvdA member of the Dutch parliament, resigned on December 18th, 2023, to become Utrecht's alderman for mobility, climate, and energy. She cited concerns about the state of the Dutch democracy in her resignation letter but will remain alderman until at least March 2026. This is the sixth premature departure from the Dutch parliament this year.

Showing 157 to 168 of 188 results