States are relying on user fees more than ever: In fiscal year 2011, user fees provided an average of 17.1 percent of revenues raised directly by states. In 1992, that figure was only 5 percent, according to the National Conference … Continue reading →
In the rush to stem hemorrhaging pension costs, some municipalities are inflicting more pain than may be necessary, say those who have been there. In October, several current and former public officials who have successfully implemented pension reform engaged in … Continue reading →
The new year brings hopes, challenges and priorities. Some cities are working on major projects, but everyone is trying to make do with the budgets and funding they have to work with. Economic development tops the list of priorities for … Continue reading →
Qualifications based selection is a method for procuring professional services based on demonstrated competence and qualifications at a negotiated fair and reasonable price. Projects administered by a federal, state or local agency that uses federal funds typically follow the Brooks … Continue reading →
The new year brings dreams of hopes, challenges and priorities. Many cities are working on major projects, and all are trying to make due with the budgets that they have to work with. In Staunton, Va., City Manager Stephen Owen … Continue reading →
Missouri fire departments construct group purchase agreement By CHRIS HALL | Springfield Fire Department As departments are tasked with an ever-widening scope of service demands, the apparatus required to meet those demands get larger and more technical. This translates into … Continue reading →
The recession, along with recent trends in finance and economics, has changed the extent to which the local level of the public sector can expect single-source funding for projects. The level and reliability of funding streams, local demographics and the … Continue reading →
Recent trends in finance and economics, including the recession, have changed the extent to which non-federal public entities can expect single-source project funding. Local leaders have had to make hard decisions about how to prioritize their communities’ needs. Having to … Continue reading →
From protecting the environment and human health to saving money, a wide gamut of reasons exist for municipalities to “go green” and rethink the purchase of equipment and supplies. Buying recycled products is one type of green purchasing, but many … Continue reading →
The town of Purcellville, Va., has embraced the challenge with several green initiatives from community shredding events including Painting Purcellville Green, an annual event with energy and cost-savings workshops plus other environmental themed activities. For these initiatives Purcellville has received … Continue reading →
Since 1916, the national park system has been the treasure of the American landscape. With over 400 locations covering 84 million acres across the United States and its territories, national parks attract nearly 279 million visitors, employ 22,000 full-time, part-time … Continue reading →
