Madrid, Iowa, is located just to the west of a direct line connecting Ames and Des Moines. The population is about 2,360, according to the 2009 U.S. Census estimate: large enough to support many local conveniences, such as gas stations, … Continue reading →
Some of the most difficult issues faced by small- and mid-sized cities and towns seem to revolve around pension reform, tax caps and decreased federal funding for infrastructure. Even given these situations, however, municipalities accomplished a great deal in 2014. … Continue reading →
Governments are well-intentioned when it comes to social programs, but oftentimes they focus on the amount rather than the quality of services provided. Funding for prevention is especially susceptible to cuts, making it difficult to consistently fund the programs, let … Continue reading →
2015 budgets have been approved, and more than likely they include allocations for at least a few pieces of new equipment. Before submitting a specific item for purchase approval, though, take a look at what manufacturers say will be the … Continue reading →
I don’t know if it’s coincidence, or if the fact that we’re now a couple of years beyond the recession is bringing to bear fruit: But stories of success and accomplishment in local government are cropping up all over lately. … Continue reading →
If you want to talk to the mayor of Carroll, Iowa, on a random weekday, don’t call city hall. He won’t be there. If he’s not out in the community or traveling on official business, Adam Schweers, 35, can usually … Continue reading →
EJCDC Releases First Standard Public-Private Partnership Agreement in US EJCDC recently released the first standard public- private partnership (P3) contract document in the United States prepared by an impartial, professional, non-profit organization, the EJCDC® P3-508, Public-Private Partnership Agreement. As a … Continue reading →
With shivering memories of last year’s arctic cold, heavy snow and other miserable weather, public works is bracing itself in case this winter is a copycat of the last one. So far, indications are that it will be. Bloomington, Minn., … Continue reading →
A county highway department in Indiana recently purchased a SlideZilla elevated and a lower sliding tray combination for a 6 ½ ft. bed Chevy Pickup truck to be used for traffic data collection. The Transportation department manager was most excited … Continue reading →
Now available in the U.S. for the first time, there’s a unique and progressive urinal that allows four men to use it simultaneously. This portable, 100 percent-recyclable four-man urinal is part of a broader revolutionary green sanitary concept introduced to … Continue reading →
A strong volunteer network, government support and a commitment to asset management are bringing the Canterbury region of New Zealand back from the extensive destruction it suffered three years ago. That’s what Amanda Millirons discovered when the Florida public works … Continue reading →
