Recent data suggests that despite the pandemic, many cities are showing an increase in program participation. It appears residents feel safe enough in their communities to participate in sports, classes and other activities offered by local parks and recreation departments. … Continue reading →
The summer of 2021 proved to be a struggle for seasonal staffing for businesses and city operations alike around the country. Cities as large as Denver reduced the number of flower beds in parks and the frequency of trash pickups … Continue reading →
2020 and 2021 could be called “the years of the bicycle” for many reasons. What does that mean? Sheryl Ely, with Knoxville, Tenn., Parks and Recreations, is known for her philosophy of moving neighbors to nature. She said, “The city … Continue reading →
On Oct.11, 2020, Greensburg, Pa., fire chief Thomas Ball responded to a late-night alarm coming from the community’s public works building on South Urania Avenue. As he drove the three-and-a-half minutes to the garage, Bell wasn’t overly concerned. He expected … Continue reading →
If four fires and a flood in four years were not enough, add in a global pandemic, and it all could make a city want to revise its emergency action plan. That’s exactly what motivated the city of Cloverdale, Calif., … Continue reading →
Municipal recycling programs have had a tough time lately. Markets like China and Malaysia, where recyclables were being sent, found that their own citizenries were generating enough recycled material to satisfy their expanding manufacturing economy. The cost of recycling was … Continue reading →
As a way to stimulate the local economy, promote community engagement and support small businesses, the city of Tehachapi, Calif., created a small business loyalty program in March. Utilizing ideas from a previous Main Street card program as well as … Continue reading →
The city administration of Denison, Iowa, found itself in a bit of a dilemma last year when two key employees of the public works department decided to retire within a short time of each other. The announcements got City Manager … Continue reading →
Erie, Pa., Public Works employee Pat Fleming hasn’t been running for long, but he knows how to make every stride count. In March, he completed a 50-mile run across the county to raise funds for Erie’s small downtown businesses that … Continue reading →
One can often be fooled by first impressions. But making that mistake with the American Computer & Robotics Museum in Bozeman, Montana., will deny one the opportunity to experience a place visitors have hailed as “absolutely amazing,” “small but fascinating,” … Continue reading →
Deadwood, S.D., reimagined by the popular HBO series, is more than an Old West town. It’s also known for historic renovation, tourism and natural beauty. Kevin Kuchenbecker serves as the city’s historic preservation officer. He said by its nature … Continue reading →
