Explore

Springfield News-Leader

Springfield's proposed data center definition sets 3 classifications

Springfield's proposed data center definition sets 3 classifications

Springfield Planning & Zoning Commission will review a proposed definition of data centers and an extension to the moratorium on Thursday, Oct. 15.

Springfield News-Leader

Work underway for Springfield initiative petition to ban data centers

Work underway for Springfield initiative petition to ban data centers

Local organizers are drafting language for an initiative petition that would seek to ban data centers in Springfield.

Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly Restructures School District Fund Balance Policy

Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly Restructures School District Fund Balance Policy

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly has adopted an ordinance that restructures a 2018 policy capping the unassigned fund balances of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. This policy change has been a significant point of contention for school district officials. They argue that the previous formula for calculating fund balances was flawed because it included all fund accounts, such as risk management and transportation funds, which are typically designated for specific purposes and not considered 'unassigned.' Furthermore, school district officials contend that the Fairbanks North Star Borough is the only municipality that imposes such restrictions on its school district's funds. This limitation, they assert, hinders the district's ability to save adequately for unforeseen emergencies and future budgetary needs, impacting its financial flexibility and long-term planning.

Springfield, MO Metro Area Grapples with Infrastructure Strain Amidst Rapid Population Growth

Springfield, MO Metro Area Grapples with Infrastructure Strain Amidst Rapid Population Growth

The Springfield, Missouri metropolitan area is experiencing its most significant population surge in two decades, leading to mounting pressures on its infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and public services. The city's population increased by over 8 percent between the 2020 census and mid-2023 estimates, making it one of Missouri’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas. This growth is primarily driven by new job opportunities in healthcare, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. Economic development officials point to strategic investments in industrial parks and technology zones as key drivers. However, this rapid expansion has resulted in daily roadway congestion, with several key intersections operating beyond their designed capacity during peak hours. City engineers are proposing phased improvements to major corridors, such as turn lane additions and adaptive traffic signal systems, to mitigate these issues. The housing market has also shifted, with median home prices rising 12 percent year-over-y...

Peachtree Corners City Council Acquires Former CineBistro Building for $3.2 Million, Plans Community Input for Redevelopment

Peachtree Corners City Council Acquires Former CineBistro Building for $3.2 Million, Plans Community Input for Redevelopment

The City of Peachtree Corners has purchased the former CineBistro building and its adjacent two-acre parking lot for $3.2 million. This acquisition was an unsolicited offer from the previous owner, Fuqua, and was funded entirely from the city's opportunity fund, without incurring any debt. The CineBistro, once an anchor tenant for the Town Center, struggled post-COVID-19 and ultimately closed. The city council decided to purchase the property to gain full control over its future use, as previous attempts by Fuqua to find new tenants or adaptive reuses (such as co-working spaces or entertainment venues) were deemed unsuitable for the Town Center's goals. The property was appraised at just under $5 million, indicating the city secured it at a favorable price. The negotiation process, including due diligence and appraisal, was conducted in executive session, a standard legal practice for real estate transactions to prevent inflated prices. The city is now embarking on a process to determine the best use for t...

Charles County Seeks $1.9 Million Federal Grant for Bus Fleet Modernization

Charles County Seeks $1.9 Million Federal Grant for Bus Fleet Modernization

Charles County Commissioners have approved a grant application seeking approximately $1.9 million in capital assistance from the Federal Transit Administration’s Buses and Bus Facilities Program. This funding is intended to replace 11 aging buses in the county’s VanGO public transit system and to 'repower' three additional buses by replacing their engines and drivetrains. The vote to approve the application was 3-0, with Commissioners Thomasina Coates and Ralph Patterson absent. The county's chief of transit, Robert Romero, stated that the federal program could cover up to 80% of the project's cost, with the county's 20% share estimated at $395,000. This local share would be proposed in the fiscal year 2028 budget. The new buses would be gasoline-powered, as current infrastructure limitations prevent the immediate adoption of electric buses for a fleet of VanGO's size, requiring significant power grid upgrades.

Springfield News-Leader

Woman dies after striking tree along James River Expressway Oct. 8

Woman dies after striking tree along James River Expressway Oct. 8

A 71-year-old driver died after leaving James River Expressway and striking a tree near the Glenstone Avenue exit ramp on Thursday, Oct. 8.

Rochester City Council Continues Efforts to Boost Awareness of Recreational Opportunities

Rochester City Council Continues Efforts to Boost Awareness of Recreational Opportunities

The City of Rochester is continuing its efforts to increase community awareness of public recreational opportunities. Following earlier criticism regarding the scaled-back launch of a new sales-tax-funded sports complex, the city has allocated $27,000 from a $55,000 budget to promote facilities and programs offered by the Park and Recreation Department and its community partners. This investment includes enhanced print and digital communication, promotion of seasonal offerings, and improved coordination with Rochester Public Schools Community Education. Rochester Strategic Communications and Engagement Director Jenna Bowman reported to the City Council that these funds have been used to test and expand approaches for increasing awareness. Specific initiatives include a 20-page mailer sent to every Rochester residence, Graham Park billboard ads costing $140 per week, and $7,500 spent on local online activity guides. Future plans involve additional radio and online advertising, boosted social media posts, an...

Architects Provide Update on Potential Pocatello City Hall Relocation, Cost Estimate Expected Soon

Architects Provide Update on Potential Pocatello City Hall Relocation, Cost Estimate Expected Soon

Architects have provided an update on the potential relocation of Pocatello City Hall. The project involves assessing the feasibility and costs associated with moving the city's administrative hub. A detailed cost estimate for this potential move is anticipated to be delivered in approximately two weeks. This update is part of an ongoing process to evaluate the best options for City Hall's future location, considering various factors such as operational efficiency, public accessibility, and long-term urban planning goals. The discussions surrounding this potential move indicate a comprehensive review of the city's infrastructure needs and how best to serve its residents.

Kansas City, Kansas, Sues State Over Chiefs Stadium Legislation, Citing Constitutional Concerns

Kansas City, Kansas, Sues State Over Chiefs Stadium Legislation, Citing Constitutional Concerns

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, has filed a lawsuit against the state of Kansas, challenging the constitutionality of House Bill 2466. This bill established the Kansas Sports Facilities Authority, an 11-person board tasked with overseeing the construction, financing, and management of a proposed Chiefs stadium, training facilities, and surrounding entertainment districts. The lawsuit argues that the legislation unconstitutionally strips the local government of its power to tax, zone, plan, set and collect local fees, and provide utility services. While the Unified Government does not oppose the idea of economic development or professional football in Kansas, it seeks to ensure that local elected officials and the residents of Wyandotte County retain a voice in decisions that will significantly impact their community. The county and city's board of commissioners previously voted 9-0 to opt out of specific parts of the law to maintain local control over these critical area...

Ketchum City Administrator Jade Riley to Depart, Finance Director Brent Davis Named Interim

Ketchum City Administrator Jade Riley to Depart, Finance Director Brent Davis Named Interim

Ketchum City Administrator Jade Riley is set to leave his position in early November to become the chief of staff at the College of Western Idaho (CWI). Riley has served as city administrator for over six years, having been hired by the City Council in September 2020. During his tenure, he oversaw significant projects including the completion of the new Ketchum Fire Station, the relocation of City Hall, the establishment of a dedicated housing department with ongoing funding through a local option tax, and major infrastructure upgrades such as the reconstruction of Main Street and Sun Valley Road, and a $37 million renovation of the wastewater treatment facility. Following Riley's departure, Brent Davis, the city's director of finance, will assume the role of interim city administrator. Mayor Pete Prekeges expressed gratitude for Riley's leadership and confidence in Davis's ability to maintain continuity, citing Davis's deep understanding of Ketchum's operations, finances, and organizational priorities.

Cuyahoga County Agencies Launch Initiative to Boost Development Near Public Transit

Cuyahoga County Agencies Launch Initiative to Boost Development Near Public Transit

Five regional organizations in Cuyahoga County have launched the 'Cuyahoga TOD' initiative, aiming to encourage development around public transportation and create more connected, walkable neighborhoods. This collaborative effort brings together the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), the City of Cleveland, the Port of Cleveland, and Cuyahoga County. The initiative seeks to coordinate planning, zoning, transportation, and development resources along key transit corridors. A new website, CuyahogaTOD.org, has been established as a central resource for developers, community partners, and residents interested in transit-oriented development, offering information on resources, financing tools, project tracking, and design guidance. The initiative builds upon a 2021 study that identified inconsistencies and barriers in current zoning along transit corridors, where only 5.5% of land is zoned for walkable, mixed-use development.