Over the past few years, substantial increases in property values have triggered an unprecedented surge in property taxes across various regions in the United States. This phenomenon is particularly acute in fast-growing states, especially those in the Mountain West, where demand for housing has skyrocketed, leading to an almost 27% increase in property values since
Politics
The upcoming federal election is set to pivotally influence key Congressional committees responsible for shaping critical fiscal policies and transportation initiatives. As voters head to the polls, the outcome of several closely contested Senate and House races will not only impact party control but also the future of tax legislation and next-generation transportation frameworks across
The municipal bond market, a crucial arena for public financing amounting to an impressive $4 trillion, is facing a pivotal moment. In light of persistent concerns over inadequate disclosures by governmental entities, a proposal for greater federal oversight has emerged, igniting a fervent debate. This notion, championed by seasoned professionals in public finance, is not
The recent onslaught of Hurricane Milton has brought the financial infrastructure of Florida into sharp focus, as the damage caused has a significantly greater impact on the state’s Hurricane Catastrophe Fund than Hurricane Helene did. The analysis of the fiscal consequences reveals a complex landscape of projected financial burdens, anticipated responses from state authorities, and
The recent announcement by the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding a staggering $2.4 billion investment allocated to 122 rail projects across 41 states and the District of Columbia marks a significant step forward for the nation’s infrastructure. This funding, made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), aims to not only generate jobs but also
As citizens head to the polls next week, a significant milestone in transportation planning and funding is on the horizon. Across various states and local jurisdictions, voters will review a staggering array of 300 transportation-related measures, collectively valued at over $70 billion. These proposed approvals range from local sales tax initiatives to statewide bond measures,
The landscape of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments is an evolving frontier, characterized not only by its financial implications but also by legal challenges that surround its practice. Recent developments in Oklahoma illustrate the tension between state regulations and corporate governance policies, encapsulated in a lawsuit against the state’s Treasurer Todd Russ, his office,
In a significant policy push, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has firmly endorsed a strategy to exclude fossil fuel infrastructure from the city’s massive pension fund investments. This initiative aims to position three of the city’s pension funds as pioneers in a national movement toward sustainable investing. With the staggering valuation of combined assets
The Chicago City Council has initiated a significant move to refinance $1.5 billion of the city’s outstanding debt, a decision laden with implications for its financial health and budgetary flexibility. While the council’s 35-12 vote reflects a strategic response to managing escalating fiscal pressures, concerns persist about the underlying structure of this refinancing and its
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) recently convened for its first quarterly board meeting of fiscal year 2025, held on October 23-24. This meeting marked a significant moment in the board’s efforts to refine its processes, with a particular focus on its rate card fee-setting mechanism. In light of previous challenges, the MSRB plans to